Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Move Upward" by Alexander Anderson is a poem that calls upon individuals to strive for personal growth, to rise above base instincts, and to embrace their true potential as human beings. The poem emphasizes the need to move away from animalistic behaviors and to elevate oneself towards higher ideals.

Anderson begins by referencing a quote from Tennyson, which urges individuals to work towards progress and leave behind their primitive nature. He implores readers to bring their best years and powers to the task of moving humanity forward. The poet envisions the current century as a stepping stone towards transcending our primitive origins.

The poem questions whether the dream of the poet will forever remain elusive, merely a myth or an empty shell. Anderson challenges the tendency to obscure meaning and truth, longing for a more direct and profound expression of ideas. He urges a marriage between thought and action, encouraging individuals to widen their perspectives and let in the light of knowledge and the strength of impactful deeds.

The poet suggests that humanity's origin from God should be a sufficient motivation to strive for higher ideals. However, the passage of time has seen humanity intertwined with base instincts, leading to bloodshed and tears. Anderson asserts that it is time to break free from the limitations we have imposed upon ourselves and aspire to reach our full potential as human beings.

Moving upward, according to the poet, means rising above the animalistic tendencies that hinder our progress. Anderson encourages individuals to strive for personal growth and to transcend their limitations. He emphasizes the importance of using our energies to uplift ourselves and reach the fullness of our potential, symbolized by the light of Christ.

Some people, however, choose to remain stagnant and oblivious to the call for progress. They sit in darkness, avoiding the truth and perpetually questioning without seeking solutions. Anderson criticizes this passive stance and encourages action and engagement with the world.

The poet challenges individuals to fight against the falsehoods and shallow thinking that hold society back. He encourages them to confront the shallow and deceptive aspects of human nature and to strive for a higher level of consciousness. Anderson believes that it is our duty to battle against these limitations and elevate our souls beyond the confines of earthly desires.

The poem expresses a desire for a profound connection with the world and a reverence for the beauty and wonder of existence. Anderson longs for a soul that can behold the world with deep understanding and experience a sense of awe and reverence in the presence of the divine. He encourages individuals to aspire to this higher level of perception.

The poem concludes with a passionate call to move upward, to embrace the noble qualities of humanity, and to leave behind the brutish aspects of our nature. Anderson urges individuals to dedicate themselves to the pursuit of higher ideals and to follow in the footsteps of those who have left guiding lights for humanity. The poem emphasizes the transformative power of personal growth and the potential for individuals to transcend their primitive instincts and rise to their true potential.

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