Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"As He Is" by W.H. Auden presents a profound exploration of human existence, ambition, love, and the duality of the human condition. The poem touches on universal themes, such as the struggle for understanding, the paradoxes of human behavior, and the complex interplay between strength and vulnerability.

The Human Condition: The poem portrays the human being as an "expressive lover," a "deliberate man," and a "militant enquirer." These descriptions emphasize the human propensity to love, to seek understanding, and to pursue knowledge and meaning. However, these pursuits are fraught with contradictions and betrayals.

Struggle and Duality: Throughout the poem, there's a tension between conflicting elements. The lamb faces the tigress, the hunter is reconciled with the victim, and the lion lies down with the adder. These images symbolize the conflicting forces within human nature and society. The dream of reconciliation and harmony often clashes with reality, leading to betrayal and defeat.

Ambition and Desire: The imagery of a "tall and gorgeous tower" that is "Gorgeous but locked, but locked" may represent human ambition and desire, unreachable ideals, and the barriers that often keep them out of reach. The desire for something grandiose is clear, but so too is the disappointment when those dreams are not realized.

Impermanence and Betrayal: The poem speaks to the transient nature of love and loyalty, as "fresh loves betray him" and "a fresh deserter rides away." These images reflect the fleeting nature of human relationships and the difficulty of maintaining trust and connection.

Desolation and Clarity: Despite the tragic elements of human existence portrayed in the poem, there's also a sense of clarity and recognition of beauty. The phrase "sits murderous and clear-headed" conveys a certain acceptance of the harsh realities of life, while "enormous beauties round him move" suggests an appreciation for the grandeur and complexity of existence.

Form and Style: The poem is written in free verse, and its fragmented structure mirrors the complexity and contradictions of the subject matter. The language is both dense and lyrical, weaving together abstract concepts with concrete images.

Conclusion: "As He Is" can be seen as a philosophical meditation on the human condition. It portrays the human being as a complex and paradoxical creature, driven by love, ambition, and inquiry, yet often thwarted by betrayal, defeat, and disillusionment. By juxtaposing images of strength and vulnerability, clarity and delusion, love and betrayal, Auden captures the multifaceted nature of human existence.

The poem challenges the reader to grapple with these complexities, offering no simple answers or resolutions. Instead, it presents a rich tapestry of human experience, filled with beauty and tragedy, clarity and confusion, hope and despair. It is a work that invites reflection on the most profound aspects of what it means to be human, and the struggles and triumphs that define our existence.

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