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In this comprehensive analysis, we will explore the thematic, stylistic, and emotional differences between the poems 'Remember' by Christina Rossetti and 'Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night' by Dylan Thomas. Both of these poems, despite their common theme of death, convey strikingly different perspectives and emotions. Our aim is to delve deeper into these poetic works to appreciate the nuances of their themes and the artistic devices employed by the poets.
'Remember' by Christina Rossetti reflects the poet's contemplation of her own mortality during her battle with cancer.
Rossetti acknowledges the inevitability of her death and seeks to prepare her loved one for her departure. The poem conveys a sense of acceptance, urging the reader to remember the speaker fondly but not to cling to grief. The sub-theme of 'Remember' can be encapsulated as "accepting death." The narrator, facing her imminent demise, shares her desire that her beloved, once she is gone, remember her with love but continue living.
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“ Ok, let me say I’m extremely satisfy with the result while it was a last minute thing. I really enjoy the effort put in. ”
The speaker's emphasis on "silent land" signifies a peaceful afterlife, suggesting that her intention is not to burden her beloved with endless sorrow, but to encourage them to cherish their time together.
In contrast, 'Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night' by Dylan Thomas was penned during a period of profound personal turmoil when the poet's father was gravely ill. Thomas passionately implores his father, and by extension, all individuals facing impending death, to resist and fight against it. The poem advocates for a spirited defiance of death, emphasizing the value of life and the regret that comes with its premature loss.
Here, the sub-theme of 'Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night' can be distilled as "fighting death." The poem's title, repeated four times throughout the work, serves as a rallying cry, urging individuals to resist the gentle acceptance of death and to cling fiercely to life. The phrase "old age should burn and rave at close of day" exemplifies the desire for individuals to continue pursuing their passions and desires even as they near the end of their lives.
Both poems employ various stylistic devices to convey their distinct messages. Repetition, for instance, is utilized in both poems to emphasize their central themes. 'Remember' repeats its title five times, underscoring the importance of remembrance and the enduring legacy of love. In this repetition, we sense the narrator's deep longing to be remembered and cherished. The recurring refrain, "remember and forget," embodies the paradox of holding onto cherished memories while moving forward.
In 'Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night,' the title is repeated four times, reinforcing the urgency and imperative nature of resisting death. The repetition serves as a powerful reminder of the poem's core message: the need to resist the inexorable approach of death. In this case, the repetition serves as a call to action, a plea for individuals to live life to the fullest and not surrender meekly to mortality.
Imagery plays a vital role in enhancing the poems' impact. Rossetti employs euphemism and personified metaphors to soften the harshness of death. For example, the phrase "silent land" metaphorically alludes to the afterlife, suggesting heaven, hell, or the grave. The use of the word "silent" conveys a sense of peaceful rest, evoking a tranquil image of the departed in their final resting place. This imagery underscores the idea that the narrator wishes for a serene and undisturbed passage into the afterlife.
In 'Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night,' the metaphor of "dying of the light" is employed to symbolize the end of a person's life. The soft and gradual fading of light, a universal symbol of life and vitality, adds a layer of complexity to the concept of mortality. While the light may dim, the poem implores individuals to resist its extinguishment with all their might. The use of "good night" as a metaphor for death is particularly poignant, suggesting that death is not merely an end but a final, restful reprieve, akin to a peaceful night's sleep.
The tone and mood of the two poems are notably different, reflecting the thematic distinctions between them. 'Remember' adopts a gentler, more resigned tone, urging acceptance and serenity in the face of mortality. Rossetti persuades her audience to embrace the memories of the departed with a sense of warmth and closure. The poem carries a mood of bittersweet remembrance, inviting readers to reflect on the inevitability of parting but also the enduring love that transcends it.
Conversely, 'Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night' exudes a fervent and defiant tone. Thomas's impassioned plea for resistance against death creates an intense and urgent mood. The poem encourages a spirited fight against the dying of the light, igniting a sense of rebellion and determination. The mood of the poem is one of urgency and defiance, challenging the acceptance of death as an inevitable and peaceful passage.
Another notable distinction lies in the dynamics of the relationships portrayed in the two poems. 'Remember' depicts an intimate and romantic relationship between the narrator and their companion. The lines "You tell me of our future that you planned" convey a sense of deep love and shared dreams. Rossetti's message revolves around gently preparing her lover for her impending death, emphasizing the importance of moving forward while cherishing memories. The narrator desires that their beloved remember them but also continue living a fulfilling life.
In 'Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night,' the relationship is familial, with the narrator addressing their father. The phrase "And you, my father" signifies a personal connection, highlighting the urgency of the poet's plea to his dying father. Thomas's message is a passionate call to arms, urging his father to resist death and continue the fight for life. The poem underscores the profound bond between a son and his father and the desire to prevent an untimely departure.
In conclusion, 'Remember' by Christina Rossetti and 'Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night' by Dylan Thomas, while sharing the common theme of death, approach it from contrasting perspectives. Rossetti advocates acceptance, remembrance, and the gentle transition of the departed. In contrast, Thomas's poem passionately implores defiance, urging individuals to resist the dying of the light and fight for life.
These poems, each with its unique stylistic devices, tone, and thematic focus, offer readers profound insights into the human experience of mortality. Whether it is the quiet acceptance of Rossetti or the fiery resistance championed by Thomas, both poems leave a lasting impact, inviting contemplation of our own attitudes towards death and the enduring legacy we leave behind. Through their poetry, Rossetti and Thomas have enriched our understanding of the complexities of life and death, offering two distinct but equally valuable perspectives on the universal human experience.
Comparative Analysis of 'Remember' and 'Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night'. (2020, Jun 01). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/comparing-remember-not-go-gentle-good-night-new-essay
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