W.H. Auden’s poem “As I Walked Out One Evening” is a complex and multi-layered work that explores themes of love, time, and mortality. In this in-depth literary analysis, we will deconstruct the poem line by line, examining its structure, imagery, and symbolism to uncover the deeper meaning behind Auden’s words. Through close reading and critical analysis, we will explore how Auden uses language and poetic devices to convey his message and create a powerful and enduring work of literature.
Historical Context
In order to fully understand W.H. Auden’s poem “As I Walked Out One Evening,” it is important to consider the historical context in which it was written. The poem was first published in 1937, a time of great political and social upheaval in Europe. The rise of fascism and the looming threat of war were major concerns for many writers and intellectuals of the time, including Auden. Additionally, the poem was written during a period of personal turmoil for Auden, as he was struggling with his own sexuality and the dissolution of his relationship with fellow writer Christopher Isherwood. All of these factors undoubtedly influenced the themes and imagery present in “As I Walked Out One Evening,” and a deeper understanding of the historical context can provide valuable insight into the poem’s meaning and significance.
Themes and Motifs
One of the prominent themes in W.H. Auden’s poem “As I Walked Out One Evening” is the concept of time. The poem explores the idea that time is a powerful force that cannot be controlled or stopped. The speaker of the poem reflects on the passing of time and how it affects love and relationships. The motif of clocks and bells is used throughout the poem to emphasize the theme of time. The clocks and bells serve as reminders of the inevitability of time and the fleeting nature of life. Another motif in the poem is the contrast between the natural world and the man-made world. The speaker observes the beauty of nature, but also acknowledges the presence of the city and its artificiality. This contrast highlights the theme of the struggle between nature and technology. Overall, the themes and motifs in “As I Walked Out One Evening” contribute to the poem’s exploration of the human experience and the passage of time.
Symbolism in the Poem
The poem “As I Walked Out One Evening” by W.H. Auden is rich in symbolism, which adds depth and complexity to the poem. One of the most prominent symbols in the poem is the clock, which represents the passage of time and the inevitability of death. The clock is personified as a “monstrous” figure that “whirrs” and “clicks” relentlessly, reminding the speaker that time is running out.
Another important symbol in the poem is the river, which represents the flow of life and the inevitability of change. The river is described as “singing” and “laughing,” suggesting that life is full of joy and vitality. However, the river is also described as “blackened” and “foul,” suggesting that life is also full of darkness and decay.
The moon is another important symbol in the poem, representing the power of love and the human desire for connection. The moon is personified as a “lover” who “embraces” the speaker, suggesting that love is a powerful force that can bring people together. However, the moon is also described as “cold” and “remote,” suggesting that love can also be distant and unattainable.
Overall, the use of symbolism in “As I Walked Out One Evening” adds depth and complexity to the poem, allowing readers to explore themes of time, change, love, and death in a more nuanced way.
Narrative Structure
The narrative structure of “As I Walked Out One Evening” is complex and multi-layered. The poem is divided into two distinct parts, with the first part focusing on the speaker’s observations of the world around him as he walks through the city streets. The second part of the poem shifts to a more introspective and philosophical tone, as the speaker reflects on the nature of time and love.
Throughout the poem, Auden employs a variety of literary devices to create a sense of unity and coherence. The use of repetition, for example, helps to reinforce key themes and ideas, while the use of imagery and metaphor adds depth and complexity to the narrative.
One of the most striking features of the poem’s narrative structure is the way in which it blurs the boundaries between past, present, and future. The speaker’s observations of the world around him are often tinged with a sense of nostalgia and regret, as he reflects on the passing of time and the inevitability of change.
Overall, the narrative structure of “As I Walked Out One Evening” is a testament to Auden’s skill as a poet and his ability to create a rich and complex world through the use of language.
Language and Tone
In “As I Walked Out One Evening,” W.H. Auden employs a language and tone that is both lyrical and melancholic. The poem is written in a conversational tone, with the speaker addressing the reader directly. The language is simple and accessible, yet the imagery is rich and evocative. The poem is filled with vivid descriptions of the cityscape, the river, and the passing of time. The tone is wistful and nostalgic, as the speaker reflects on the fleeting nature of love and the inevitability of death. Overall, the language and tone of “As I Walked Out One Evening” contribute to its emotional impact and enduring appeal.
Imagery and Metaphor
In “As I Walked Out One Evening,” W.H. Auden employs vivid imagery and metaphor to convey the themes of love, time, and mortality. The poem’s opening lines, “As I walked out one evening, / Walking down Bristol Street,” immediately transport the reader into the scene, allowing them to visualize the speaker’s surroundings. Throughout the poem, Auden uses metaphor to explore the complexities of love, comparing it to a “desperate disease” and a “tide that will not turn.” These metaphors not only add depth to the poem but also allow the reader to connect with the speaker’s emotions on a deeper level. Overall, the use of imagery and metaphor in “As I Walked Out One Evening” showcases Auden’s mastery of language and his ability to convey complex themes through poetic devices.
Sound and Rhythm
Sound and rhythm play a crucial role in W.H. Auden’s poem “As I Walked Out One Evening.” The poem is written in a ballad form, which is characterized by its musicality and repetition. The rhyme scheme is ABAB, and the meter is iambic tetrameter, which means that each line has four iambs, or stressed and unstressed syllables. This creates a steady and predictable rhythm that mimics the sound of walking.
Auden also uses alliteration and assonance to create a musical quality to the poem. For example, in the first stanza, the words “love” and “leave” are alliterated, and the words “streets” and “feet” are assonant. This repetition of sounds creates a sense of unity and coherence throughout the poem.
Furthermore, Auden uses repetition to emphasize certain phrases and ideas. The refrain “I’ll love you, dear, I’ll love you till China and Africa meet” is repeated throughout the poem, highlighting the speaker’s unwavering love for his beloved. The repetition of the phrase “the clocks had ceased their chiming” also emphasizes the theme of time and its fleeting nature.
Overall, the sound and rhythm of “As I Walked Out One Evening” contribute to the poem’s musicality and enhance its emotional impact.
Interpretations and Criticisms
Interpretations and criticisms of W.H. Auden’s “As I Walked Out One Evening” have varied greatly over the years. Some readers have praised the poem for its beautiful language and poignant themes, while others have criticized it for being overly sentimental or lacking in depth. One common interpretation of the poem is that it is a meditation on the nature of time and the inevitability of death. Others have seen it as a commentary on the human condition, with the speaker’s journey representing the struggles and challenges that we all face in life. Despite these differing interpretations, one thing is clear: “As I Walked Out One Evening” remains a powerful and thought-provoking work of literature that continues to captivate readers today.
Comparisons to Other Auden Works
In comparison to other works by W.H. Auden, “As I Walked Out One Evening” stands out for its use of a conversational tone and its exploration of the theme of time. While Auden’s earlier works, such as “Funeral Blues,” are more formal in their language and structure, “As I Walked Out One Evening” reads like a casual conversation between two individuals. Additionally, the poem’s focus on the passing of time and the inevitability of death is a recurring theme in Auden’s works, but is particularly poignant in this piece. Overall, “As I Walked Out One Evening” showcases Auden’s versatility as a poet and his ability to tackle complex themes in a relatable and accessible way.
The Role of Time in the Poem
In “As I Walked Out One Evening,” time plays a crucial role in the poem’s overall meaning and message. The poem is structured around the passing of time, with each stanza representing a different hour of the day. This creates a sense of urgency and inevitability, as time marches on regardless of the speaker’s desires or actions.
Additionally, the poem explores the theme of love and its relationship with time. The speaker’s lover tells him that “love has no ending,” but the poem’s structure and imagery suggest otherwise. The passing of time is portrayed as a destructive force that erodes even the strongest emotions, and the final stanza suggests that the speaker’s love will eventually fade away like “the stars above [him].”
Overall, the role of time in “As I Walked Out One Evening” is complex and multifaceted. It serves as both a structural device and a thematic element, highlighting the poem’s exploration of love, mortality, and the human experience.
The Significance of Love and Loss
In “As I Walked Out One Evening,” W.H. Auden explores the significance of love and loss in a poignant and thought-provoking manner. Through the use of vivid imagery and powerful metaphors, Auden delves into the complexities of human relationships and the impact they have on our lives. The poem highlights the fleeting nature of love and the inevitability of loss, reminding us of the fragility of our existence and the importance of cherishing the moments we have with those we love. As we delve deeper into the poem, we begin to see how Auden’s exploration of love and loss is not just a personal reflection, but a universal one that speaks to the human experience as a whole.
The Poem’s Relationship to Modernism
The poem “As I Walked Out One Evening” by W.H. Auden is often considered a prime example of modernist poetry. Modernism was a literary movement that emerged in the early 20th century and was characterized by a rejection of traditional forms and a focus on individual experience and perception. Auden’s poem embodies many of these characteristics, with its fragmented structure, use of stream-of-consciousness narration, and exploration of themes such as love, time, and mortality. Additionally, the poem’s use of imagery and symbolism reflects the modernist interest in exploring the inner workings of the human mind and the complexities of the human experience. Overall, “As I Walked Out One Evening” is a powerful example of modernist poetry and a testament to Auden’s skill as a writer.
The Poem’s Relationship to Traditional Poetry
As a modernist poet, W.H. Auden often challenged traditional poetic forms and structures. “As I Walked Out One Evening” is no exception, as it defies the conventions of traditional poetry in several ways. For one, the poem lacks a consistent rhyme scheme, instead opting for sporadic rhymes throughout. Additionally, the poem’s meter is irregular, with lines varying in length and rhythm.
However, despite these departures from traditional poetry, “As I Walked Out One Evening” still maintains a strong connection to the poetic tradition. The poem’s use of imagery and metaphor, for example, is reminiscent of the Romantic poets who came before Auden. The poem’s themes of love, time, and mortality are also common themes in traditional poetry.
Furthermore, Auden’s use of repetition and alliteration, while not strictly traditional, are techniques that have been used by poets for centuries. The poem’s structure, with its three stanzas and refrain, also echoes the structure of traditional ballads.
Overall, while “As I Walked Out One Evening” may not adhere to all the conventions of traditional poetry, it still maintains a strong relationship to the poetic tradition. Auden’s innovative use of form and structure only serve to enhance the poem’s impact and make it a timeless work of art.
The Poem’s Relationship to Auden’s Personal Life
As with many poets, W.H. Auden’s personal life had a significant impact on his work. “As I Walked Out One Evening” is no exception. The poem was written during a tumultuous time in Auden’s life, as he was struggling with his own identity and the political climate of the world around him. This is reflected in the themes of love, time, and mortality that permeate the poem. Additionally, the poem’s structure, with its use of repetition and rhyme, reflects Auden’s interest in traditional forms of poetry and his desire to experiment with them. Overall, “As I Walked Out One Evening” is a deeply personal work that reflects both the poet’s inner turmoil and his artistic vision.
The Poem’s Relationship to Political and Social Issues
As with many of Auden’s works, “As I Walked Out One Evening” reflects the political and social issues of its time. Written in 1937, the poem was composed during a period of great political upheaval in Europe, with the rise of fascism and the looming threat of war. Auden’s poem can be read as a commentary on the state of the world at that time, with its themes of love, time, and mortality serving as a reflection of the anxieties and uncertainties of the era. Additionally, the poem’s use of language and imagery can be seen as a critique of the political and social structures of the time, with Auden using his poetic voice to challenge the status quo and call for change. Overall, “As I Walked Out One Evening” is a powerful example of how poetry can be used to engage with and comment on the political and social issues of its time.
The Poem’s Relationship to Religion and Spirituality
W.H. Auden’s poem “As I Walked Out One Evening” explores the themes of love, time, and mortality, but it also has a strong relationship to religion and spirituality. The poem’s opening line, “As I walked out one evening, / Walking down Bristol Street,” immediately sets the scene for a spiritual journey. The act of walking is often associated with pilgrimage or spiritual exploration, and the mention of Bristol Street could be seen as a metaphor for the path of life.
Throughout the poem, there are references to religious imagery and language. For example, the line “The years shall run like rabbits” could be interpreted as a reference to the biblical passage in Isaiah 40:6-8, which speaks of the transience of human life. Additionally, the line “The clocks had ceased their chiming” could be seen as a metaphor for the end of time, which is a common theme in religious texts.
The poem also explores the idea of love as a spiritual force. The speaker’s encounter with a lover in the second stanza is described in almost mystical terms, with the lover’s eyes being compared to “the stars that shine.” The idea of love as a transformative and transcendent force is a common theme in many religious traditions, and Auden seems to be exploring this idea in “As I Walked Out One Evening.”
Overall, the poem’s relationship to religion and spirituality is complex and multifaceted. While it is not explicitly religious in nature, it contains many references to religious imagery and language, and explores themes that are often associated with spirituality.
The Poem’s Relationship to Philosophy
The poem “As I Walked Out One Evening” by W.H. Auden has a strong relationship to philosophy. The poem explores themes of time, love, and the human condition, all of which are central to philosophical inquiry. The poem’s use of language and imagery also reflects philosophical ideas, such as the concept of the eternal and the fleeting nature of existence. Additionally, the poem’s structure and form suggest a philosophical approach to understanding the world, as it presents multiple perspectives and layers of meaning. Overall, “As I Walked Out One Evening” demonstrates the intersection of literature and philosophy, and invites readers to consider the deeper questions of life and existence.
The Poem’s Relationship to Music and Song
The relationship between poetry and music has been a long-standing one, with many poets drawing inspiration from musical forms and structures. W.H. Auden’s “As I Walked Out One Evening” is no exception, as the poem’s rhythm and rhyme scheme lend themselves to a musical interpretation. In fact, the poem has been set to music by several composers, including Benjamin Britten and Richard Rodney Bennett. The use of repetition and refrain in the poem also adds to its musicality, creating a sense of melody and harmony that echoes throughout the verses. Additionally, the poem’s themes of love and timelessness are often explored in music, making it a fitting subject for musical interpretation. Overall, the relationship between “As I Walked Out One Evening” and music is a testament to the power of poetry to inspire and evoke emotion in multiple art forms.