Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

W.H. Auden's "At the Manger" is a poignant poem that offers a fresh perspective on the Nativity, depicting the thoughts and emotions of Mary as she gazes upon the infant Jesus. The poem conveys both tenderness and foreboding, acknowledging the extraordinary destiny that awaits the child.

Mother's Love and Anxiety: The opening lines depict Mary's loving gaze, yet also her awareness of the dangers her child will face. Her maternal love is tinged with anxiety, knowing the suffering that awaits him.

The Human and the Divine: Jesus is both human and divine, and the poem explores this dual nature. Mary's love and her flesh connect Jesus to humanity, but they also seem inadequate compared to the divine will.

Fate and Foreknowledge: Mary seems to be aware of Jesus's fate, hinting at his future suffering and death on the cross. The questions she asks herself ("Why was I chosen to teach his Son to weep?") reflect her struggle to reconcile her role as a mother with her son's divine mission.

Dream and Reality: The final stanza encourages the child to dream, acknowledging that in dreams, earthly concerns are transcended. Yet this is juxtaposed with the knowledge that Jesus's reality will be marked by sorrow.

Language and Tone: Auden's language is tender yet solemn, capturing the beauty and tragedy of the moment. The repetition of imperative verbs ("shut," "sleep," "dream") emphasizes Mary's desire to protect her child, even as she recognizes her powerlessness to do so.

Overall, "At the Manger" offers a deeply human and empathetic portrayal of a scene that is often depicted in reverent but distant terms. By imagining Mary's complex emotions, Auden brings the story closer to our own experiences of love, fear, hope, and loss.

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