Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Orange and Green" is a poem by Gerald Joseph Griffin, an Irish author, poet, and playwright known for his portrayals of Irish life and culture.

Main Points: The poem tells the story of an Orangeman (a Protestant, often associated with unionism in Ireland) who shelters a stranger, a man associated with the color green, symbolic of Irish nationalism. The stranger had just killed the Orangeman's son in a fight, but when the Orangeman learns of his son's death, he still protects the stranger, honoring his promise. Years later, the two meet again in Wexford. The Orangeman, now an old man, is surrounded by an angry crowd. He tells his story, which is heard by the stranger, who steps forward to return the favor and protects the old Orangeman, declaring him his friend and savior.

Themes:

Unity and Reconciliation: The central theme of the poem is unity and reconciliation, represented by the blending of the orange and green flags at the end of the poem. Despite the sectarian violence and animosity that is a backdrop to the poem, it offers a hopeful message of shared humanity and potential for reconciliation.

Reciprocity and Gratitude: The story in the poem revolves around acts of kindness, even between enemies, and the reciprocal nature of those actions. The stranger's gratitude for the Orangeman's past kindness leads him to intervene and save the old man from an angry crowd.

Regret and Sorrow: The poem also explores the themes of regret and sorrow, seen in the Orangeman's lifelong grief over the loss of his son and the regret both characters seem to feel about their violent pasts.

Poetic Devices:

Symbolism: The colors orange and green in the poem are symbolic representations of the Protestant and Catholic communities in Ireland, respectively.

Repetition: The poem uses repetition effectively to establish rhythm and to emphasize certain ideas. For example, the repetition of 'Eileen aroon!' throughout the poem emphasizes the speaker's affection for Eileen.

Rhyme: The poem employs an ABAB rhyme scheme, which contributes to its rhythmic flow and musicality.

Conclusion: "Orange and Green" is a poignant exploration of sectarian violence in Ireland and the potential for reconciliation. Through the intertwined lives of the Orangeman and the stranger, Griffin illuminates the themes of unity, reciprocity, and the enduring sorrow of conflict.

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