Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Dying Day of Death" by Ronald Campbell Macfie is a thought-provoking poem that explores the concept of mortality and the transient nature of existence. Through vivid imagery and evocative language, the poem delves into the awakening of Death and its eventual demise.

Ronald Campbell Macfie was a Scottish poet and writer who lived from 1870 to 1921. Although not widely recognized, Macfie's poetry often delved into themes of life, death, and the mysteries of existence. "Dying Day of Death" is one of his notable works, reflecting his contemplative approach to these subjects.

The poem begins with a striking image of the speaker awakening from the dreamless sleep of Death. They experience a sense of pain and struggle, symbolized by wrenched arms and gasping for breath, as they transition back into being a mortal man. This introduces the central theme of the transient nature of life and the inevitable encounter with Death.

The description of the torn and tattered heavens, swayed by hurrying wings and busy breath, sets a haunting atmosphere. It signifies the resurrection of the dead and the dying day of Death itself, suggesting a momentous event in the natural order.

As the speaker observes the scene, they witness peculiar sights. The sun halts halfway down the west, creating a unique lighting effect. In the midst of the world's unrest, there are a few stars shining in the shadow of the pendant blue. These images evoke a sense of calmness and patience amid the chaos.

The poem takes a darker turn as the speaker describes weird voices wailing around the vexed sea and cold corpses lying on yellow sands. These haunting images portray the struggles of those emerging back into life, panting themselves to existence while moving their ashen hands. The imagery evokes a sense of pain and disorientation.

The focus then shifts to a valley where a black cloud lies. The speaker wonders if it is Thunder dying but is informed that it is Death. They hear Death moaning and gasping, witnessing the cloud rising and falling like a tumultuous sea. The hungry fingers of Death grasp the rocks deliriously, hinting at its relentless nature.

Moving onward, the speaker climbs a hill and sees Death's hollow face on the plain below. The description emphasizes the physical toll on Death's appearance, with sinuous serpent veins and a brow carved by myriad pains. The image of a broken scythe with blood upon it adds to the ominous atmosphere.

The poem concludes with the speaker witnessing Death's final moments. They notice Death's talon-fingers locking convulsively and his hands pressed heart-wards. The land experiences a sudden upheaval, rolling and rocking before eventually lapsing into rest. The description portrays Death as a servant of God, a cloud-enfolded sleeper devoid of breath.

"Dying Day of Death" is a profound and introspective poem that confronts the inevitability of mortality. Through vivid imagery and a contemplative tone, Ronald Campbell Macfie explores the awakening and eventual demise of Death itself. The poem invites readers to

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