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As individuals approach the twilight of their lives, they often find themselves reflecting on their personal histories and the events that have shaped their existence. This introspection frequently leads to contemplation of mortality and the unknown future that awaits. In the poems "When I Have Fears" by John Keats and "Mezzo Cammin" by Henry Longfellow, we encounter two distinct perspectives on the impending specter of death. While both poems grapple with the fear of mortality, they arrive at contrasting conclusions. Keats' work conveys a deep appreciation for life and a subtle satisfaction with its wonders, whereas Longfellow's composition dwells in morbid lamentation over past inaction and harbors trepidation for the uncertainties of the future.
The two poems share a common theme of apprehension regarding the inevitability of death.
Keats employs vivid diction to articulate his concerns about ceasing to exist and the potential loss of a fulfilling life. He expresses the fear of never fully realizing his aspirations.
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Similarly, Longfellow's verses convey a sense of urgency, with the speaker lamenting that "half of [his] life is gone" and that the years seem to slip away. Both narrators share a profound dread of not achieving all they had once hoped for in their lifetimes.
Keats employs the anaphora of "when" to underscore the various fears intertwined with the notion of death. Additionally, he uses the anaphora of "before" to emphasize his concerns about succumbing to death before he can fulfill his educational aspirations. Conversely, Longfellow acknowledges his failure to realize "the aspiration of [his] youth" or construct a "tower of song with lofty parapet." This metaphorical tower symbolizes the literary legacy and artistic success the speaker had once envisioned for himself, but now realizes he may never achieve.
Both poems eloquently convey the apprehension that life's inevitable end inspires in individuals.
Where Keats' poem diverges from Longfellow's is in its expression of appreciation for the life he has led, even in the face of impending mortality. In "When I Have Fears," Keats employs vivid imagery to depict his feelings about love. He characterizes love as a rare and elusive phenomenon, described as "huge cloudy symbols of a high romance" and "shadows, with the magic hand of chance." The speaker believes that love is a fleeting and serendipitous occurrence, and he laments the possibility of not experiencing it due to the looming specter of death.
The speaker's reference to "unreflecting love" suggests that he has yet to experience genuine love and is anxious that he may never do so, preoccupied as he is with the imminent approach of death. However, as "When I Have Fears" draws to a close, the speaker reflects that his aspirations for literary renown and love ultimately pale in comparison to the grandeur of existence. In this realization, he finds solace and a sense of hope beyond the confines of mortality.
Conversely, Longfellow's "Mezzo Cammin" exudes a much more melancholic and pessimistic tone. Through diction such as "half of my life," "years slip," and "not fulfilled," Longfellow paints a bleak picture of the speaker's life. It becomes evident that the speaker's fear of death paralyzes him, hindering any progress towards his goals. He is consumed by negativity about his past, rendering him unable to fully engage with the present or envision a brighter future.
The speaker remains fixated on the past, dwelling on images of a "smoking roof, soft bells, and gleaming lights." These hazy recollections represent an idealized past, one haunted by death and sorrow. Longfellow's speaker appears incapable of envisioning a future, and his stagnation is a stark contrast to Keats' speaker, who maintains a greater appreciation for life's possibilities.
Both poems underscore the impermanence of life and the significance of living in the present. Keats' poem encourages readers to seize the day, make the most of their lives, and appreciate the beauty and wonder of existence. It reminds us that if we live our lives to the fullest, death need not be a source of unrelenting fear and anxiety.
On the other hand, Longfellow's work serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the destructive consequences of fixating on the past and fearing the future. It is a somber reminder that dwelling in pessimism and regret can lead to a life unfulfilled and stunted in personal growth.
In conclusion, the poems of John Keats and Henry Longfellow offer distinct perspectives on the inevitability of death. Keats' "When I Have Fears" celebrates life's wonders and suggests that even in the face of mortality, there is room for hope and appreciation. Longfellow's "Mezzo Cammin," on the other hand, serves as a warning against allowing the fear of death to consume one's existence, resulting in a life marked by regret and stagnation. These poems ultimately remind us of the importance of embracing the present, seizing opportunities, and making the most of our lives, regardless of the uncertainties that lie ahead.
Reflections on Death: A Comparative Analysis of Keats and Longfellow. (2017, Jan 22). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/when-i-have-fears-and-mezzo-cammin-essay
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