Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Wystan Hugh Auden's "Portrait" is an exploration of the disillusionment inherent in the passage of time and the sobering realization of human limitations. Known for his ability to address complex themes with clarity and wit, Auden was one of the leading literary figures of the 20th century. This poem epitomizes his use of vivid and sometimes stark imagery to confront painful truths.

The poem opens with the depiction of a person in vibrant and impassioned terms, drawing attention to features such as "The lips so apt for deeds of passion" and "The symmetry of form beneath / An Irish mackintosh." The 'portrait' Auden paints is filled with life and intensity, described in such a way that it teems with both youthful beauty and defiance. The "wild / Defiant pupils of a child" suggest a rebellious spirit, alive with potential and the courage to challenge norms.

In these initial lines, Auden employs strong imagery and metaphor, using physical attributes as symbols for broader themes of passion, beauty, and rebellion. The poet's language choice here is rich and vivid, sparking an immediate connection with the reader and creating an intimate understanding of the character.

However, the tone shifts in the middle of the poem as the narrative voice acknowledges the gods, presumably the creators, for their artistic ability in crafting such a vibrant individual. Still, they are accused of leaving "the signature unwritten" - a critique that they abandoned their creation too soon. This phrase indicates an incomplete masterpiece, suggesting that while the person portrayed may have had a promising start, their potential was never fully realized.

The reference to G?tterd?mmerung, the title of the final opera in Wagner's Ring Cycle meaning 'twilight of the gods,' is significant. The use of this term points towards a cataclysmic downfall or ending, further emphasizing the theme of disillusionment and the fading of youthful potential.

The concluding stanzas bear a melancholic tone, moving from vibrant descriptions to the contemplation of inevitable failures and disappointments. Auden writes, "A story, which we know, will fail / To turn romantic fairy tale," expressing a sobering recognition of the unavoidable passage of time, human limitations, and the painful reality that life does not always meet our expectations.

Auden's choice of an intricate rhyme scheme which is a key element of Auden's verse and adds depth to his exploration of the themes within the poem. This structure contributes to the poem's overall rhythm and musicality, underscoring the emotional shifts that occur as the poem progresses.

In conclusion, "Portrait" by W.H. Auden is a profound contemplation of potential, disappointment, and the passage of time. Through striking imagery, compelling metaphors, and a judicious use of language, Auden skilfully depicts the journey from the vibrant promise of youth to the sobering reality of unfulfilled potential and inevitable endings. It's a poignant exploration of human existence, filled with both the allure of beauty and the stark reality of imperfection and decline.

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