This blog is a part of my Bachelor of Arts syllabus, as we are preparing our Digital Portfolio. We are all tasked with writing blogs on the literary works we have studied.
Life
Life, believe, is not a dream
So dark as sages say;
Oft a little morning rain
Foretells a pleasant day.
Sometimes there are clouds of gloom,
But these are transient all;
If the shower will make the roses bloom,
O why lament its fall?
Rapidly, merrily,
Life’s sunny hours flit by,
Gratefully, cheerily
Enjoy them as they fly!
What though Death at times steps in,
And calls our Best away?
What though sorrow seems to win,
O’er hope, a heavy sway?
Yet Hope again elastic springs,
Unconquered, though she fell;
Still buoyant are her golden wings,
Still strong to bear us well.
Manfully, fearlessly,
The day of trial bear,
For gloriously, victoriously,
Can courage quell despair!
Let's analyze Charlotte Brontë's poem "Life" in terms of its themes, structure, language, and overall message.
Themes:
1. Optimism and Resilience: The poem conveys a message of optimism and resilience in the face of life's challenges. Brontë encourages the reader to maintain hope and courage, even in difficult times, by emphasizing the transient nature of sorrow and the potential for brighter days ahead.
2. Transience of Life: The poem reflects on the fleeting nature of life and its moments of joy and sorrow. Brontë uses imagery such as "Life's sunny hours flit by" and "Sometimes there are clouds of gloom," to convey the impermanence of both happiness and sadness.
3. Hope and Perseverance: Throughout the poem, there is a recurring emphasis on the power of hope and perseverance. Brontë suggests that even in the face of loss and adversity, hope can spring eternal, enabling individuals to overcome despair and find strength to carry on.
Structure:
1. Stanza Structure: The poem consists of four quatrains, each containing four lines. This structure allows for a systematic development of the poem's themes, with each stanza building upon the previous one.
2. Rhyme Scheme: The poem follows an ABAB rhyme scheme, with each quatrain containing alternating rhymes. This regular rhyme scheme contributes to the poem's musicality and rhythm, making it memorable and enjoyable to read aloud.
Language and Imagery:
1. Metaphor: Brontë employs metaphorical language to convey her ideas about life and its challenges. For example, she compares life to a "little morning rain," suggesting that temporary hardships can lead to brighter days ahead.
2. Personification: The poem personifies hope as having "golden wings," which emphasizes its enduring and uplifting qualities. This personification adds depth to the poem's imagery and reinforces its message of resilience.
3. Alliteration: Throughout the poem, there are instances of alliteration, such as "Rapidly, merrily" and "Gratefully, cheerily." These repeated consonant sounds contribute to the poem's musicality and help to emphasize key phrases.
Overall Message:
"Life" by Charlotte Brontë is a hopeful and optimistic reflection on the transient nature of joy and sorrow. Through its structured form, vivid imagery, and uplifting language, the poem encourages readers to embrace life's fleeting moments of happiness and to face adversity with courage and perseverance. Brontë's message of resilience and hope serves as a source of inspiration for navigating the ups and downs of life with grace and determination.
Thank you so much for reading this blog.
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