Welcome to Poem of the Day – As At Thy Portals Also Death by Walt Whitman.
“As At Thy Portals Also Death” is a contemplative poem that explores themes of mortality, the interconnectedness of life and death, and the acceptance of human fragility. Whitman reflects on the inevitability of death and the idea that it is a natural part of existence. Through his characteristic free verse and rich imagery, he conveys a sense of reverence for the cycle of life and death.
As At Thy Portals Also Death Poem
AS at thy portals also death,
Entering thy sovereign, dim, illimitable grounds,
To memories of my mother, to the divine blending, maternity,
To her, buried and gone, yet buried not, gone not from me,
(I see again the calm benignant face fresh and beautiful still,
I sit by the form in the coffin,
I kiss and kiss convulsively again the sweet old lips, the cheeks,
the closed eyes in the coffin;)
To her, the ideal woman, practical, spiritual, of all of earth, life,
love, to me the best,
I grave a monumental line, before I go, amid these songs,
And set a tombstone here.
As At Thy Portals Also Death Poem Explanation
The poem begins with the speaker addressing the notion of death as a familiar presence at the gates of life. Whitman uses vivid language to describe the intimate relationship between life and death, suggesting that they coexist and that death is not an end but rather a transformation. The speaker expresses a deep understanding of mortality, emphasizing that death is a part of the human experience that should be embraced rather than feared.
Structure and Form
Form: “As At Thy Portals Also Death” is written in free verse, allowing Whitman the flexibility to express his thoughts without the constraints of traditional rhyme or meter.
Rhyme Scheme: The poem does not adhere to a specific rhyme scheme, which reflects Whitman’s style of capturing the flow of thought and emotion.
Meter: The poem features varied line lengths and rhythms, contributing to its organic quality and reflecting the natural ebb and flow of life.
Detailed Explanation of Major Elements
Imagery: The poem is filled with rich, evocative imagery that creates a sense of presence. Whitman’s descriptions invite readers to visualize the gates of life and the shadow of death looming near, reinforcing the idea that death is an ever-present companion.
Symbolism: The “portals” symbolize the thresholds between life and death, suggesting that each moment of life is a doorway to the next phase of existence. Whitman portrays death not as something to be feared, but as a natural progression that is woven into the fabric of life.
Tone: The tone of the poem is contemplative and accepting. Whitman approaches the subject of death with a sense of peace, encouraging readers to reflect on their own lives and the beauty found within the transience of existence.
Conclusion
In “As At Thy Portals Also Death,” Whitman masterfully captures the duality of life and death, urging readers to embrace mortality as an integral part of the human experience. The poem serves as a reminder that while life is fleeting, it is enriched by the understanding of its impermanence, fostering a deeper appreciation for each moment.
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