Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Nathaniel Hawthorne was an American writer known for his gothic and allegorical works. "Conscience" is a poem that was published in 1843 in a collection called "The Keepsake."

Context:

"Conscience" was written during the mid-19th century when there was a growing awareness of the importance of individual conscience and morality. The poem reflects Hawthorne's own preoccupation with the themes of guilt and redemption, which are prevalent in many of his works.

Content:

"Conscience" is a poem that explores the inner turmoil and conflict that can arise from a guilty conscience. The speaker reflects on the feelings of shame and remorse that come from committing a wrong, and the fear of being exposed. The poem also suggests that redemption and forgiveness are possible through the workings of the conscience.

Form:

"Conscience" is a short poem consisting of three stanzas of six lines each. The poem follows a simple ABAB rhyme scheme and is written in iambic tetrameter, which gives it a natural and flowing rhythm. The use of rhyme and meter creates a sense of unity and balance within the poem.

Poetic Elements:

Hawthorne employs a variety of poetic techniques in "Conscience," including metaphor, imagery, and personification. The garden, tree, and bird are all used as metaphors to represent the inner workings of the conscience. The use of imagery and personification helps to create a vivid and evocative picture of the inner turmoil and conflict that can arise from a guilty conscience.

Summary:

"Conscience" is a powerful and thought-provoking poem that showcases Hawthorne's skill as a poet. The use of metaphor, imagery, and personification creates a vivid and evocative picture of the workings of the conscience. The poem's exploration of themes of guilt, redemption, and morality make it a timeless and relevant work. "Conscience" is a poignant and thought-provoking piece of poetry that deserves to be read and studied.

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...