Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Robert Frost's poem "Now Close the Windows" presents a quiet, reflective moment where the speaker contemplates the transition from day to night, symbolizing a broader introspection and acceptance of silence and solitude. Through concise and evocative language, Frost captures the essence of a peaceful retreat into oneself, away from the distractions of the outside world.

The poem begins with a directive: "Now close the windows and hush all the fields." This line establishes a tone of finality and tranquility, suggesting a deliberate shutting out of the external environment. The command to "hush all the fields" personifies nature, implying a desire for stillness and silence. By closing the windows, the speaker seeks to create a boundary between the inner world and the outer chaos.

Frost continues with the imagery of trees: "If the trees must, let them silently toss." The trees, typically associated with movement and life, are now allowed to "silently toss," emphasizing the quietude that the speaker desires. The use of "silently" underscores the peacefulness of the scene, as even natural elements that usually produce sound are subdued.

The next lines introduce the absence of birdsong: "No bird is singing now, and if there is, / Be it my loss." Here, the speaker acknowledges the silence of the birds, a common symbol of life and activity. The phrase "Be it my loss" suggests a resignation to this silence, indicating that the speaker is willing to forgo the beauty of birdsong for the sake of maintaining the quiet. This acceptance highlights the speaker's introspective mood, where internal reflection takes precedence over external pleasures.

Frost then shifts to a broader temporal perspective: "It will be long ere the marshes resume, / It will be long ere the earliest bird." These lines emphasize the duration of the quiet period, suggesting that it will take a significant amount of time before the marshes and birds return to their usual activity. The repetition of "It will be long" reinforces the idea of an extended pause, creating a sense of patience and acceptance in the face of stillness.

The poem concludes with a reaffirmation of the initial action: "So close the windows and not hear the wind, / But see all wind-stirred." By closing the windows, the speaker chooses not to hear the wind, yet remains observant of its effects. This line captures the paradox of shutting out the world while still being aware of its presence. The decision to "see all wind-stirred" instead of hearing it underscores a shift in perception, where visual observation replaces auditory engagement. This shift allows the speaker to maintain a connection with nature without being overwhelmed by its sounds.

"Now Close the Windows" is a meditative poem that explores themes of solitude, silence, and introspection. Through simple yet evocative imagery, Frost creates a serene atmosphere where the speaker finds solace in quietude. The poem invites readers to consider the value of retreating from the noise of the outside world to find peace within. By focusing on the act of closing windows and observing the subtle movements of nature, Frost emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and the beauty of stillness in a chaotic world.

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