Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"In Memoriam: John Davidson" by Ronald Campbell Macfie is a deeply moving elegy dedicated to the Scottish poet and playwright John Davidson. Using rich and evocative imagery, Macfie reflects on Davidson's life, works, and struggles, and expresses both sorrow for his death and admiration for his passionate spirit.

Provenance and Context

John Davidson was a notable figure in the literary world of late 19th-century Scotland. His poetry often focused on the struggles of the individual against societal constraints, a theme that resonated with many during the Industrial Age. However, Davidson struggled with depression, financial difficulties, and critical neglect, which led to his presumed suicide in 1909. Ronald Campbell Macfie, a contemporary and admirer of Davidson's, composed this poem to commemorate his life and works.

Theme Analysis

The dominant themes in "In Memoriam: John Davidson" include struggle, rebellion, despair, death, and redemption. The struggle and rebellion are reflected in Macfie's description of Davidson as a figure battling against societal norms, unjust circumstances, and the existential questions of life. Davidson's life, marked by "success" and "defeat," "passion" and "despair," is portrayed as a relentless battle against forces both external and internal.

Despair is evident in the depiction of Davidson's discontentment and frustration with the world around him. His 'ire,' likened to "lightning on a lyre" and "thunder in the lily throat of June," is symptomatic of his profound disillusionment and sorrow.

The theme of death is introduced with the figure of Death, described as a "grisly shape," with a "visage proud and pale" and a "grey forefinger with the purple nail." Macfie suggests that Davidson, overwhelmed by his burdens and "hot sorrow," called upon Death, who granted him the release of eternal sleep.

Redemption is offered in the form of commemoration and forgiveness. Macfie absolves Davidson of his perceived failures, choosing instead to remember the "sweet, wild, poignant passion" of his song. The poem ends on a hopeful note, affirming that Davidson's works will continue to bloom and blossom in the hearts of his readers.

Poetic Devices

Macfie employs a variety of poetic devices in his elegy to enhance its emotional depth and visual appeal. He uses vivid and often contrasting imagery to convey the turmoil and despair of Davidson's life, as well as the beauty and intensity of his works. For example, Davidson's discontent is likened to a "lambent fire, purple and red," while his poetry is portrayed as a rose reaped with a rapier, and his discontent and wrath as a mere "cobweb in God's path."

Metaphor is used extensively throughout the poem. Davidson is depicted variously as a "phantasmal lark," a "rebel grappling with the stars," a bird "shrilling a tune upon the moon," and dust "belched from the furnace of the sun." These metaphors underscore Davidson's restless spirit, his defiance of norms, and his existential struggle.

The poem also employs a regular rhyme scheme, creating a rhythmic flow that enhances its emotional impact. The use of alliteration, assonance, and consonance also adds to the musicality of the piece, making it both poignant and memorable.

Conclusion

"In Memoriam: John Davidson" by Ronald Campbell Macfie is a moving tribute to the life and works of John Davidson, acknowledging his struggles and despair while celebrating his passion and creative spirit. Through vivid imagery, metaphoric language, and rhythmic verse, Macfie captures the complexity of Davidson's life, offering a compassionate and hopeful perspective on his legacy.

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...