Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Art of Healing" by W.H. Auden is a deeply personal poem dedicated to a deceased friend, Dr. David Protetch. It reflects on the nature of healing, the relationship between patient and physician, and the complex interplay of emotions, illness, and humanity.

Healing as an Art: The poem begins with the common perception of doctors as detached, almost mythical figures. Auden's own father, a physician, taught him to see healing as an "intuitive art of wooing Nature." The poet emphasizes the human side of medicine, recognizing that every patient is unique, with their own perceptions, prejudices, and emotional needs.

The Doctor's Perspective: Auden shares personal experiences with Dr. Protetch, recognizing him as a compassionate and understanding healer. He celebrates Dr. Protetch's wisdom and care, contrasting it with the "medical engineers and their arrogance" that he himself fell victim to. This creates a sense of shared humanity between doctor and patient, something rare and valuable.

Illness and Emotion: The poem touches on the emotional dimension of illness, recognizing sickness as a "musical problem" and cure as a "musical solution." Illness and healing are depicted not just as physical issues but as deeply entwined with the human psyche. The physician's understanding of this connection is presented as crucial to effective treatment.

Friendship and Trust: Auden's relationship with Dr. Protetch is portrayed as one of trust and friendship. The poet expresses his confidence that the doctor would be honest with him even in the face of death, without resorting to "soothing fictions." This trust and empathy make the loss of Dr. Protetch all the more poignant.

Mortality and Humanity: Towards the end of the poem, the focus shifts to Dr. Protetch's own mortality and struggle with illness. The line "It is only bad temper that keeps me going" adds complexity to the doctor's character, showing that even healers are not immune to the frustrations and challenges of sickness. The closing lines honor Dr. Protetch's memory, recognizing his unique gifts and accepting his human imperfections.

Form and Style: The poem is written in unrhymed tercets, and its conversational tone helps to create an intimate and reflective mood. Auden's use of specific details from his own experience adds authenticity to the portrayal of the doctor-patient relationship.

Conclusion: "Art of Healing" challenges conventional views of medicine and physicians by emphasizing the importance of empathy, intuition, and human connection. It's a deeply personal reflection on the complex interplay between body and mind, science and art, trust and vulnerability. By honoring the memory of a compassionate and humane physician, Auden calls for a more nuanced and humane approach to healing, recognizing the essential role of empathy and understanding in medical practice.

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