Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

W. H. Auden, one of the most influential literary figures of the 20th century, often wrote poems reflecting social, political, and personal issues. "His Excellency" follows suit and provides a deep and multifaceted look at aspects of contemporary life, perhaps dealing with themes of complacency, materialism, and the disillusionment with reality.

Provenance and Context

Although the exact provenance of this poem is unclear, Auden's work was often influenced by the socio-political climate of his time. He lived through both World Wars and witnessed significant social changes. During the mid-20th century, when Auden was most active, there was a growing emphasis on materialism and the traditional family model. This cultural context likely influenced "His Excellency."

Themes

1. Materialism and Complacency

The poem opens with a depiction of a comfortable, perhaps even prosperous life. However, the repetition and the simple, almost child-like rhyme scheme can be read as a critique of a superficial and unexamined life. The car "that goes so far" and the "devoted" wife are presented almost as trophies, reflecting societal values that place importance on possessions and status.

2. Love and Loss

The middle stanzas introduce a longing for something more profound and authentic. They hint at a past where "nothing was enough / But love, but love." This can be read as a longing for a time or a personal state where material things were secondary to emotions and authentic connections.

3. Self-Deception and Reality

The ending of the poem brings the themes of self-deception and reality into focus. The suggestion that the protagonist should not see the "loss as major / And final, final" implies a denial of the emptiness of materialistic life. It's an urge to overlook the superficiality, but with an undertone that recognizes the truth.

Poetic Devices

Repetition: The repetitive structure emphasizes the mundane routine of the subject's life and the societal norms that are being critiqued.

Contrast: The stark contrast between the longing for love and the satisfaction with material success drives home the poem's central tension.

Ambiguity: The poem's ambiguous language leaves room for interpretation and reflects the universal nature of its themes.

Conclusion

"His Excellency" by W. H. Auden is a complex and layered poem that presents a biting critique of materialism and societal norms. Through subtle and skillful use of poetic devices, it conveys a sense of longing for authentic emotional connection, a critique of complacency, and a subtle acknowledgment of the harsh realities of life. Its strength lies in its ability to encapsulate a specific moment in time while still resonating with timeless human desires and discontents. Like much of Auden's work, it challenges the reader to look beyond the surface, to question accepted norms, and to confront the often uncomfortable truths that lie beneath.

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...