Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Poverty" by Rosa Mulholland is a poem that personifies poverty as a holy pilgrim or "palmer." It presents an ethereal and reverent vision of poverty, far removed from the harsh realities and struggles usually associated with it.

Rosa Mulholland (also known as Lady Gilbert after her marriage), was born on October 19, 1841, in Belfast, Ireland, and died on April 21, 1921

The poem unfolds as a dream where the speaker sees a holy palmer, a figure representing poverty, on a spiritual journey. Her face is "pensive" and her eyes are "radiant," uplifted towards the heavens as if seeking divine approval or guidance. She is described as drinking the "tender moon's approving light," emphasizing her connection with celestial forces and the purity of her endeavor.

The image of the city below, glittering with lamps and bustling with "revelry," contrasts sharply with the palmer's solitary climb. It represents worldly pleasures and materialism, against which the figure of poverty is set. This dichotomy between the earthly and the spiritual is further emphasized by the mention of the city's lights making the "mellow planets pale to sight."

The personification of poverty continues as she maintains her gaze towards the stars, ignoring the distractions of the city until the dawn breaks. Angels greet her, and she passes through golden gates and along a rosy bridge into "eternal day." The imagery here is rich with spiritual symbolism and echoes themes found in religious texts.

The portrayal of poverty as a holy and ethereal figure is an interesting artistic choice, perhaps meant to invoke contemplation on the virtues of simplicity, humility, and spiritual fulfillment, as opposed to materialistic pursuits. By elevating poverty to a spiritual plane, Mulholland may be challenging readers to reflect on the values and priorities that guide their lives.

The gentle rhythm, rich imagery, and spiritual undertones of "Poverty" provide a unique perspective on a subject that is often viewed negatively. It invites readers to see poverty not just as a lack of material wealth but as a potentially enriching spiritual state, an idea that resonates with certain philosophical and religious traditions.

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