October Winds: Unraveling Dylan Thomas's Themes

Dylan Thomas, in his poem 'Especially When The October Wind,' delves into the intricate connection between man and nature, unveiling a poetic journey that explores mortality, childhood innocence, and the interplay of sexuality. The dynamic force that guides both man and nature is personified as 'the hand' that manipulates the wind and steers the ship of death, embodying mortality in a vivid image: "The hand that whirls the water in the pool stirs the quicksand; that ropes the blowing wind hauls my shroud sail.

And I am dumb to tell the hanging man how of my clay is made the hangman's lime" (Ackerman 79).

The poem echoes Thomas's profound connection with the natural world and humanity, weaving themes of childhood innocence and the inevitable passage of time. Thomas paints a picturesque scene of Swansea, glorifying the simple joys of life with images of children playing in the park: "star-gestured children." However, he poignantly notes that this innocence is transient, foretelling the loss of innocence with the line, "Of many thorny shire tell your notes.

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" The reference to thorny shires suggests the inevitable challenges and hardships that await these children as they grow older.

In a tower of words, Thomas, like an observer, marks the contrast between the present innocence of children and the wordy shapes of women, emphasizing the inevitable progression from innocence to experience: "Shut, too, in a tower of words, I mark on the horizon walking like the trees the wordy shapes of women, and the rows of the star-gestured children in the park.

" This theme of fading innocence resonates throughout Thomas's works, as seen in 'Fern Hill,' where the symbolism of the apple represents youthful innocence, and the poem reflects on the natural process of breaking free from the chains of innocence with the passage of time.

Notably, in 'Especially When The October Wind,' Thomas subtly introduces a sexual subtext, portraying his heart as feminine and exploring the complexities of desire: "My busy heart who shudders as she talks sheds the syllabic blood and drains her words." Here, Thomas incorporates biblical references, reflecting the influence of religion on his perspective. The poem presents a nuanced view of sexuality, acknowledging its natural aspect while also alluding to the societal perception of it as sinful.

Understanding Thomas's exploration of sexuality requires delving into his personal life. In September 1933, during the creation of '18 Poems,' Thomas began corresponding with Pamela Hansford Johnson, culminating in a two-year relationship marked by intimacy and inspiration. This connection is reflected in the sexual references scattered throughout '18 Poems.' However, the relationship ended due to Thomas's thoughtless and unreliable behavior.

Sexuality remains a prominent theme in Thomas's body of work, evident in poems such as 'If I Were Tickled By The Rub Of Love,' 'My Hero Bares His Nerves,' 'Light Breaks Where No Sun Shines,' 'early notebooks,' and 'Twenty-four Years.' These works explore various facets of sexuality, from romantic intimacy to more explicit themes. For instance, 'Cabaret,' written when Thomas was just sixteen, reflects his romantic perspective, describing an encounter with a girl in vivid detail.

'My Hero Bares His Nerves' from '18 Poems' initially appears to convey themes of internal growth and confidence. However, literary criticism by John Ackerman unveils a deeper layer, interpreting the poem as a reflection on masturbation. The poem moves from physical sensations to a fantasy of love, capturing Thomas's complex relationship with his own desires and the societal norms surrounding sexuality.

In conclusion, 'Especially When The October Wind' serves as a poignant exploration of Dylan Thomas's multifaceted themes. The poem not only captures the beauty of childhood innocence and the inevitable passage of time but also delves into the nuanced aspects of sexuality. Thomas's personal experiences, particularly his relationship with Pamela Hansford Johnson, further enrich the understanding of his exploration of sexuality in '18 Poems.' As readers navigate the winds of Thomas's poetry, they are invited to unravel the layers of complexity within the human experience, especially when the October wind whispers the secrets of mortality and desire.