Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"My Will" is a poem by Adelaide Anne Procter, first published in 1861. Procter was a prominent English poet and philanthropist who wrote extensively about social issues of her time, including poverty, child labor, and women's rights. "My Will" is a reflective poem that speaks to the idea of leaving behind a legacy and the importance of living a meaningful life.

The poem consists of four stanzas, each with six lines. The rhyme scheme is ABABCC, with the final two lines of each stanza rhyming with each other. The use of rhyme and meter creates a musical quality to the poem, emphasizing its meditative and introspective nature.

Procter uses several poetic devices to convey the theme of the poem. The most prominent device is metaphor, with the speaker comparing life to a ship and death to a shore. The use of metaphor helps to create a sense of continuity between life and death, as well as emphasizing the idea of life as a journey. Procter also uses repetition, with the phrase "My will" appearing at the beginning of each stanza. This repetition serves to underscore the importance of the speaker's will and intention in shaping their life and legacy.

The main theme of the poem is the importance of living a purposeful life and leaving behind a meaningful legacy. The speaker reflects on the impermanence of life and the inevitability of death, emphasizing the need to make the most of the time one has. The idea of leaving behind a legacy is also emphasized, with the speaker expressing the desire to be remembered for their good deeds and contributions to the world. Additionally, the poem touches on the theme of agency and personal responsibility, as the speaker emphasizes the importance of living a life guided by one's own will and intentions.

As a poem, "My Will" by Adelaide Anne Procter is a poignant reflection on the fragility of life and the importance of living a life true to oneself. Through the use of vivid imagery and powerful metaphors, Procter captures the reader's attention and offers a glimpse into the innermost thoughts and fears of a dying person. Ultimately, the poem is a call to action, encouraging readers to embrace their passions and live their lives to the fullest, for time is short and there is no guarantee of tomorrow.

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