Life is considered, by some, to be a journey towards death and the great reward of afterlife. This traveling process is held in many different views and is expressed in numerous manners in literature. Two prominent Victorian poets who wrote on this topic were Alfred Lord Tennyson with Crossing the Bar and Christina Rossetti with Up-Hill. Through their in-depth and unique use of imagery, tone and theme, the authors individual ideals are conveyed in poetic In Crossing the Bar, Tennyson employs descriptive images that help portray his views about death. In the beginning of the poem, Tennyson writes, Sunset and evening star, and one clear call for me, emphasizing that the skies are clear and there is overbearing calmness. Tennyson reinforces this portrait by adding, but such a tide as moving seems asleep, representing that the sea is set for clear and calm voyage. However, Rossettis Up-Hill illustrates a much different image than Crossing the Bar.
She paints a picture of a rough trek through lines such as, Shall I find comfort, travel-sore and weak?. Rossetti also writes, Then must I knock, or call when I am in sight? They will not keep you standing at the door., which demonstrates of acceptance and openess. The authors distinct ideals of the journey of life and death of man can also be interpreted through the tone of each poem. In Crossing the Bar, Tennyson presents a sense of serenity by expressing his actions confidently that all is well. This mood is achieved through the lines, When that which drew from out the boundless deep turns home again and For though from out our bourne of Time and Peace the flood may bear me far. These lines reassure that no infliction will occur throughout his travel to see his Pilot face to face.
The Essay on The Many Faces Of Death
The Many Faces of Death Death is seemingly a defined term, but its not. Through usage of language can be made to represent physical, spiritual or emotional death. Only by closely examining the exact language used can one understand the death taking place, and the effects that stream into everyones life. Willy Loman dies, this is known to be true. He crashes his car in order to show Biff how ...
Rossettis conception of lifes journey is not so peaceful as Tennysons. The poem is an pendulum of prying questions with fulfilling answers to which the asking speaker progresses along. This poetic form makes up a tone that advances in strength through each stanza. While the overall tone is a positive, there is added element of uncertainty Finally, the theme of each poem shows the authors view on how their own journey will be. From his writing, Tennyson believes that death and the journey to the afterlife is an uninterrupted travel which none should display sorrow with the lines And may there be no sadness of farewell when I embark and And may there be no moaning of the bar when I put out to sea. Rossettis perception of the attainment of the eternity in afterlife is one full of doubt and inquisition.
There is, however, a higher authority who does answer the inquiries with comforting revelations. This theme is demonstrated by the lines, Will there be beds for me and all who seek? Yes, beds for all who come.. The journey of life does vary immensely from person to person, making poems such as these all the more interesting. Such as life, the idea of death and what follows it is also as wide in view bringing upon more intrigue and insight. Tennyson and Rossettis poems contrast each other magnificently in the range of which man views the subject. While Tennyson sees his death as a calm sea voyage, Rossettis travel is an uphill struggle to achieve the greatness of immortality.
The works usages of tone and imagery help transpose the authors themes and purposes more clearly and eloquently.
