LATER LIFE

Later Life

Something this foggy day, something which

Is neither of this fog nor today,

Has set me dreaming of the winds that play

Past certain cliffs, along one certain beach,

And turn the topmost edge of waves to spray:

Ah, pleasant pebbly strand so far away,

So out of reach while quite within my reach,

As out of reach as India or Cathay!

I am sick of where I am and where I am not,

I am sick of foresight and memory,

I am sick of all I have and all I see,

I am sick of self, and there is nothing new;

Oh, weary impatient patience of my lot!

Thus with myself: how fares it, Friends, with you?

The Poetry of Christina Rossetti: Exploring the Themes and Symbolism in her Poems

As admirers of poetry, we are constantly seeking new works to read and explore. One poet whose work has stood the test of time is Christina Rossetti, a Victorian-era writer whose verse is as relevant today as it was when it was first penned. In this article, we will delve into the themes and symbolism present in Rossetti's poetry, and explore why her works continue to captivate readers more than a century after her death.

Introduction

Christina Rossetti (1830-1894) was a British poet known for her romantic and devotional verse. Her work explored themes such as love, faith, and mortality, and often featured vivid imagery and symbolism. Although she achieved modest success during her lifetime, it was not until after her death that her poetry gained widespread recognition and acclaim.

Themes in Rossetti's Poetry

One of the recurring themes in Rossetti's poetry is love, both romantic and spiritual. In her poem "Echo," for example, she writes of a love that is both unattainable and all-consuming: "I shall love but once, and then / Love will be repaid with love / And death thereafter."

Another prominent theme in Rossetti's work is faith, particularly her Christian faith. Her poems often explore the tension between earthly desires and the desire for salvation, as in "Up-Hill," where the speaker asks, "Does the road wind uphill all the way? / Yes, to the very end."

A third theme that appears frequently in Rossetti's poetry is the passing of time and the inevitability of death. In "Remember," she writes of a lover who asks to be remembered after their passing: "Remember me when I am gone away, / Gone far away into the silent land."

Symbolism in Rossetti's Poetry

Rossetti's poetry is also characterized by the use of rich, evocative symbolism. In "Goblin Market," for example, she uses the image of the forbidden fruit to explore the themes of temptation and redemption. The poem tells the story of two sisters, Laura and Lizzie, who are enticed by goblin merchants selling exotic fruit. Laura succumbs to temptation and eats the fruit, which has a bewitching effect on her. Lizzie, however, resists the temptation and saves her sister by offering herself in exchange for the fruit.

Another example of Rossetti's use of symbolism can be found in "In the Bleak Midwinter," a Christmas carol that uses the image of a stable to convey the humility and sacrifice of Christ. The poem ends with the lines, "What can I give Him, poor as I am? / If I were a shepherd, I would bring a lamb; / If I were a Wise Man, I would do my part; / Yet what I can I give Him: give my heart."

Conclusion

In conclusion, Christina Rossetti's poetry continues to captivate readers today because of its timeless themes and evocative imagery. Her exploration of love, faith, and mortality, as well as her use of symbolism, has ensured that her work remains relevant and resonant more than a century after her death. For poetry lovers seeking new works to explore, the works of Christina Rossetti are a must-read.