Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Mariana" is a poem by Alfred Tennyson, first published in 1830. The poem is a dramatic monologue that explores the themes of loneliness, despair, and nostalgia. It is written in the form of a lamentation by the character of Mariana, who is trapped in an abandoned manor in a desolate landscape. The poem is notable for its vivid imagery, its lyrical language, and its powerful evocation of mood.

The poem begins with a description of Mariana's surroundings: a lonely moated grange that has been abandoned by its former occupants. The landscape is described as being bleak and deserted, with only the sound of the wind to break the silence. The description of the setting creates a sense of isolation and desolation that sets the tone for the rest of the poem.

The character of Mariana is introduced as a woman who is trapped in this desolate place, waiting for her lover to return. She is described as being pale and sad, with a look of longing in her eyes. She spends her days and nights in the empty manor, listening to the sound of the wind and the rain, and dreaming of her lost love.

The poem then turns to Mariana's thoughts and feelings. She recalls the past, when her lover used to visit her at the manor, and when she was filled with hope and joy. She remembers the sound of his voice, the touch of his hand, and the warmth of his love. But now, he is gone, and she is left alone to suffer in silence.

Throughout the poem, Mariana's mood shifts from hopelessness to despair, and from despair to anger. She curses the manor, the weather, and her fate. She longs for death, and for release from her suffering. But despite her pain, she remains steadfast in her devotion to her lover, and in her hope that he will one day return.

The poem ends with Mariana's realization that her lover will never return, and that she must accept her fate. She resigns herself to a life of loneliness and despair, and the poem closes with the haunting image of Mariana standing alone in the empty manor, listening to the sound of the wind and the rain.

In conclusion, "Mariana" is a powerful and evocative poem that explores the themes of loneliness, despair, and nostalgia. Tennyson's use of vivid imagery, lyrical language, and powerful emotions create a vivid portrait of a woman trapped in a desolate landscape, waiting for a love that will never return. 

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