Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"The Deserter['s Meditation]" by John Philpot Curran presents the contemplations of a man who appears to be both physically and emotionally weary, perhaps a soldier or a deserter, hence the title. He seems resigned to his fate and expresses a carpe diem (seize the day) sentiment as he nears the end of his journey.

Provenance: John Philpot Curran (1750-1817) was an Irish orator, politician, wit, and judge. He was well known for his sharp mind and quick wit. This poem, with its heavy themes of despair and resignation, reflects a darker side of his work.

Theme Analysis:

Resignation and Acceptance: Throughout the poem, the speaker is not actively resisting or attempting to avoid his fate. Instead, he acknowledges that "Death, unfailing / Will strike the blow." He appears to be reconciled to the inevitability of his death.

End of Suffering: The speaker describes himself as a "wayworn ranger" who has run his course "through every danger." There is an implied relief in his impending death, as it will put an end to his physical and emotional suffering.

Transience and Mortality: The poem expresses a strong sense of life's transience and the certainty of mortality. Despite the sadness in his words, the speaker encourages merry-making before death arrives, exhibiting a carpe diem ethos.

Poetic Devices:

Repetition: The repeated line, "Let us be merry / Before we go!" emphasizes the poem's carpe diem message. It also creates a rhythmic cadence that reinforces the poem's meditative tone.

Rhyme: The poem follows an AAABCCB pattern in each of the two stanzas.

Metaphor: The speaker uses the metaphor of a "wayworn ranger" to describe his own life journey. The metaphor emphasizes his weariness and the hardships he's endured.

Symbolism: The "cup runs low" is a symbol of the speaker's life nearing its end. It's a poignant image that conveys the speaker's acceptance of his mortality.

Overall, "The Deserter['s Meditation]" by John Philpot Curran is a poignant exploration of mortality, acceptance, and the urge to seize the day in the face of death. Through repetition, rhyme, metaphor, and symbolism, Curran effectively conveys the speaker's weary resignation and his call to make the most of the time left.