Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Decoys" by W.H. Auden is a contemplative poem that uses the imagery of birds and fowlers (bird hunters) to explore themes of innocence, deceit, vulnerability, and perhaps the harsh realities of existence.

Poem Analysis:

The Birds and Valleys: The poem begins by describing birds in the valleys, who flutter around without concern. They may represent innocence or the natural, untouched aspects of life.

The Careless and Seeming Kindness: The birds are described as being drawn to "the careless" and trained to snare by seeming kindness. This could be a metaphor for innocence drawn to something dangerous or deceptive, possibly an allegory for people being lured into traps through apparent gentleness or charm.

The Masked Hill and Fleeting Flight: The imagery here is mysterious and enchanting. The "masked hill" could signify hidden dangers or underlying truths, while the birds' "fleeter" flight might suggest a deceptive appearance or fleeting beauty.

Fowlers and the Ambush: The fowlers are compared to foxes, cunning and predatory. They lie in wait for the unsuspecting birds. This can be seen as a comment on the predatory nature of humans or society, where innocence can be easily preyed upon.

The Kill and Loss of Love: The poem concludes with the shooting of the "real unlucky dove," a symbol of peace and love, falling away from brightness. This could signify a loss of innocence or the destructive force that underlies even the most beautiful and serene scenes. The separation of love from living suggests a tragic detachment or disillusionment.

Overall Themes: The poem seems to comment on the fragility of innocence and the lurking dangers that can be hidden beneath seemingly calm and beautiful exteriors. It might also be interpreted as a broader metaphor for human relationships, where trust can be exploited, and love can be lost.

Auden's Style: Auden's choice of language is both lyrical and precise, painting a vivid picture while also leaving much to interpretation. The use of nature as a metaphor for human experience is a common theme in his work, and in "Decoys" he employs this to great effect.

"Decoys" invites multiple interpretations and can be seen as a meditation on human vulnerability, the potential for deception in relationships, or a broader existential reflection on the juxtaposition of beauty and cruelty in the world.