Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Price" by W.H. Auden is a poem that contrasts the innocence and idealism of childhood with the burdens and responsibilities of adulthood. Here's an analysis of the themes, structure, and literary devices present in the poem.

Themes

Innocence and Idealism: The opening stanzas depict a world of childhood innocence and imagination, where "Harum-scarum childhood plays" and "love knows no wrong." This is a place of pure belief, untouched by the harsh realities of life.

Loss of Innocence and Responsibility: The latter part of the poem introduces a drastic shift, emphasizing the price that must be paid for the creation and protection of this innocent world. The tone becomes foreboding, and the imagery darkens, leading to themes of sacrifice, loneliness, and terror.

The Burden of Creativity: The poem could also be interpreted as a reflection on the artist's journey. The creation of a vivid, imaginative world requires great personal cost, including isolation, sacrifice, and emotional pain.

Structure

The poem is divided into two distinct sections. The first describes the idyllic world of childhood and imagination, while the second delves into the costs associated with maintaining or creating such a world.

Literary Devices

Contrast: Auden employs stark contrast between the two sections of the poem. The transition from innocence to terror is abrupt and emphasizes the sudden loss of innocence.

Imagery: The poem is filled with vivid imagery that evokes the senses. From the playful meadows of childhood to the "cool shade of the tomb," the images create a powerful emotional landscape.

Symbolism: Various elements in the poem can be interpreted symbolically. The "vivid tree" and "grass of phantasy" may symbolize the creative imagination, while the "pit of terror" and the ghost may represent the fears and anxieties that come with adulthood or artistic creation.

Metaphor: The progression from childhood to adulthood is metaphorically depicted as a journey from innocence to experience, from play to responsibility. The description of a person becoming a "Bride and victim to a ghost" may symbolize the union with and subjugation to one's inner demons or fears.

Alliteration: The use of alliteration, such as "He shall watch and he shall weep," adds to the rhythmic quality of the poem, creating a lyrical flow that enhances its emotional resonance.

Conclusion

"Price" by W.H. Auden is a thought-provoking poem that explores the duality of innocence and responsibility, creativity and sacrifice. Its contrasting imagery and symbolic language serve to illustrate the complex relationship between the idyllic world of belief and the harsh realities that must be faced to sustain it. The "price" alluded to in the title is multifaceted, encompassing not only the personal costs of adulthood but also the burdens borne by those who strive to create and preserve beauty and innocence in the world.

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