A Comparative Analysis of Heaney and Hardy

Analysis, Pages 4 (808 words)

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Delving into the intricate nuances of reactions to nature, the poems An Advancement of Learning by Heaney and An August Midnight by Hardy offer a candid and non-idealized exploration. Both poets, in their unique ways, unravel the often-overlooked facets of the natural world, focusing on creatures such as rats and insects. This essay aims to dissect the linguistic techniques employed by each poet to convey their perspectives on nature and provide a thorough comparison between the two poems, culminating in the revelation of personal preferences.

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Titles as Portals to Meaning

The exploration begins with an examination of the titles, offering a gateway into the poems' depths. Heaney's choice, "An Advancement of Learning," draws inspiration from Francis Bacon, suggesting a philosophical depth and the promise of a revelation in the reactions to nature. In contrast, Hardy's "An August Midnight" juxtaposes words associated with light and darkness, emphasizing the inherent dichotomy between man and beast.

Imagery: Setting the Scene

The poets skillfully utilize imagery to set the stage for their narratives.

"An Advancement of Learning" commences with a riverside walk, where swans, described as "dirty-keeled," challenge the conventional majestic portrayal, introducing a discord that paves the way for the appearance of the rat. Conversely, "An August Midnight" by Hardy employs phrases like "a waving blind" and "the beat of a clock," portraying the influence of time on our reactions to nature, particularly emphasizing irrational fears at night.

Initial Horror and Negative Reactions

As the poems unfold, both Heaney and Hardy express their initial horror in encountering these seemingly mundane creatures.

Heaney employs a cacophony of negative imagery, describing the rat with sibilance and alliteration, crafting a claustrophobic atmosphere. His use of an expletive - "God, another was nimbling" - intensifies the horror, offering a vivid portrayal of his negative reaction to nature. Similarly, Hardy depicts insects as "winged, horned, and spined," creating a triad of demonic imagery that aligns with the negative reaction expressed by Heaney.

Transformation and Revelation

Progressing through the poems, both speakers undergo a transformative journey in their understanding of nature. Heaney, in "An Advancement of Learning," speaks of staring down the rat and ultimately crossing the bridge, symbolizing not only a physical but a spiritual conquest over fear. This transformation in reaction to nature becomes markedly positive. Similarly, Hardy's "An August Midnight" sees a shift from viewing insects as nuisances to referring to them as "guests," signifying a positive evolution in the speaker's perspective.

Tonal Shifts: Fear to Calm

Both poems exhibit tonal shifts, commencing with fear and culminating in a more tranquil and contemplative tone. In "An Advancement of Learning," Heaney's speaker, initially burdened with a sickened throat, undergoes a transformative shift in tone. Similarly, "An August Midnight" by Hardy concludes triumphantly as he overcomes his initial fear of the rat, with phrases like "I muse" signaling a shift to a calmer and more reflective tone.

Form and Structure: Insights into Reactions

The form and structure of the poems add layers to the speakers' reactions, providing additional insights. Both can be categorized as dramatic monologues, particularly "An Advancement of Learning," which mirrors the style of epic battles. The poems share irregular rhyme schemes and uneven quatrains, mirroring the unpredictability of nature and the fluctuating reactions of the speakers.

A significant contrast arises in the structure of "An August Midnight," written in iambic pentameter and resembling the format of a play. It consists of two 'acts,' employing dramatic language such as "on this scene enter." This rigid structure suggests a more methodical and carefully considered approach by Hardy's speaker compared to Heaney's spontaneous reaction to nature.

Contextual Considerations

Understanding the context in which the poems were written adds depth to our interpretation. "An Advancement of Learning" draws from Heaney's childhood experiences in rural Ulster, offering a realistic portrayal devoid of idealization. Descriptions like "oil-skinned river" convey a rejection of idealized settings, presenting an honesty that resonates with readers in their reactions to nature.

On the other hand, "An August Midnight" by Hardy provides an interesting context that could be seen as a counter-argument to Darwinism. Hardy, an agnostic, contemplates whether humans are truly superior to "God's humblest." The poem takes on an observational perspective, with Hardy alone in his musings. This contrasts with Heaney's direct and involved reaction to nature, showcasing two distinct approaches to exploring the natural world.

Personal Preference and Conclusion

In conclusion, both poems offer a poignant portrayal of the dynamic evolution of reactions to nature. Personally, "An Advancement of Learning" resonates more profoundly due to its infusion of dramatic and entertaining elements into the speaker's interactions with nature, presenting a contrast to Hardy's more neutral approach. This comparative analysis unravels the nuanced ways in which poets capture and convey their experiences with the natural world, providing readers with a richer understanding of the complexities inherent in our reactions to the environment.