Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Robert Frost's poem "Two Leading Lights" contrasts the sun and the moon, exploring their roles and behaviors in the celestial sphere. Through this comparison, Frost delves into themes of power, restraint, and the dynamics between these two prominent figures in the sky.

The poem opens with the speaker reflecting on the lack of previous contemplation about the sun and moon: "I never happened to contrast, / The two in the celestial cast, / Whose prominence has been so vast." This sets the stage for the comparison that follows, highlighting the significant influence both celestial bodies have.

Frost begins with the sun, noting its consistent presence and immense power: "The Sun is satisfied with days / He never has in any phase / That I have heard of shone at night." The sun's predictability and commitment to daylight emphasize its reliability. The sun's potential to "overwhelm / And dayify the darkest realm" underscores its immense power, but Frost points out the sun's "greatness to refrain." This suggests that true strength lies in the ability to control and wisely wield one's power.

In contrast, the moon is portrayed as less reliable and more whimsical: "The Moon for all her light and grace / Has never learned to know her place." Despite the moon's beauty and grace, her behavior is inconsistent: "But there are many nights though clear / She doesn’t bother to appear." This capriciousness is further emphasized by the mention of her diminished appearances and erratic behavior: "Some lunatic or lunar whim / Will bring her out diminished dim."

Frost likens the moon's relationship with the sun to the Queen of Sheba's visit to Solomon: "To set herself beside the Sun / As Sheba came to Solomon." This comparison suggests a sense of awe and perhaps a desire to share in the sun's grandeur, though the moon's motives remain ambiguous. The poem hints at the moon's fascination with the sun's power: "Some rumor of his wishing ring / That changes winter into spring / Has brought her merely visiting."

The final lines of the poem reveal a possible interpretation of the moon's behavior: "An irresponsible divinity / Presuming on her femininity." Here, Frost suggests that the moon, as a feminine figure, may feel entitled to behave whimsically, relying on her inherent charm and grace to justify her actions.

"Two Leading Lights" by Robert Frost offers a nuanced comparison between the sun and the moon, highlighting their contrasting qualities and behaviors. The sun's steadfastness and restraint are juxtaposed with the moon's erratic and unpredictable nature. Through this exploration, Frost subtly comments on the nature of power, responsibility, and the dynamics between these two celestial bodies, inviting readers to reflect on the broader implications of these characteristics in the natural world and human behavior.

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