W.H. Auden’s poem “O What Is That Sound” is a haunting elegy that explores the themes of fear, loss, and the passage of time. The poem’s enigmatic nature has led to much interpretation and analysis, with scholars and readers alike attempting to unravel its mysteries. In this article, we will delve into the poem’s meaning and symbolism, examining the ways in which Auden uses language and structure to create a powerful and evocative work of art.
The Enigmatic Elegy: Exploring W.H. Auden’s ‘O What Is That Sound’ Summary
W.H. Auden’s poem “O What Is That Sound” is a haunting elegy that explores the themes of fear, loss, and the inevitability of death. The poem is structured as a series of questions and answers, with the speaker trying to make sense of the ominous sound that he hears outside his window. As the poem progresses, the sound becomes more and more menacing, until it finally culminates in the arrival of a group of soldiers. The poem is enigmatic and open to interpretation, with many different readings possible. Some critics have seen it as a commentary on the rise of fascism in Europe, while others have interpreted it as a meditation on the fragility of human life. Whatever the interpretation, “O What Is That Sound” remains a powerful and haunting work of poetry that continues to captivate readers today.
The Life and Works of W.H. Auden
W.H. Auden was a prolific poet and writer, known for his unique style and ability to capture the complexities of the human experience. Born in England in 1907, Auden began writing poetry at a young age and quickly gained recognition for his work. He was a leading figure in the literary world throughout the 1930s and 1940s, and his influence can still be felt today. Some of his most famous works include “Funeral Blues,” “The Unknown Citizen,” and “September 1, 1939.” Despite his success, Auden was known for his enigmatic personality and often kept his personal life private. He passed away in 1973, but his legacy lives on through his poetry and writings.
The Elegy Genre in Literature
The elegy genre in literature is a form of poetry that is often associated with mourning and lamentation. It is a type of poem that is written in honor of someone who has passed away, or to express grief and sorrow over a loss. The elegy genre has been around for centuries and has been used by poets to express their emotions and feelings about death and loss. One of the most famous elegies in literature is W.H. Auden’s “O What Is That Sound.” This poem is a haunting and enigmatic elegy that explores the themes of fear, loss, and the fragility of life.
The Structure of ‘O What Is That Sound’
The structure of W.H. Auden’s “O What Is That Sound” is unique and adds to the enigmatic nature of the poem. The poem is divided into three stanzas, each with four lines. The first stanza sets the scene with the sound of footsteps and a knocking at the door. The second stanza introduces a dialogue between two individuals, one asking for help and the other refusing. The final stanza brings a sense of resolution as the knocking stops and the speaker reflects on the experience. The repetition of the phrase “O what is that sound” throughout the poem creates a haunting and ominous tone. The use of rhyme and meter also adds to the musicality of the poem. Overall, the structure of “O What Is That Sound” enhances the poem’s themes of fear, isolation, and the human condition.
The Symbolism of the Bell in the Poem
The bell in W.H. Auden’s poem “O What Is That Sound” serves as a powerful symbol throughout the piece. At first, the bell’s tolling seems to represent a warning or a call to action, as the speaker hears it “in the silence of the night” and wonders “what can it be?” However, as the poem progresses, the bell takes on a more ominous tone, becoming a symbol of impending doom or even death. The speaker hears the bell “again and again,” and each time it seems to grow louder and more insistent, until it becomes “a sound that nobody knows.” This ambiguity and uncertainty surrounding the bell’s meaning adds to the poem’s enigmatic quality, leaving readers to ponder its significance long after the final line has been read.
The Themes of Love and Loss in the Poem
The themes of love and loss are prevalent throughout W.H. Auden’s poem “O What Is That Sound.” The speaker of the poem is haunted by the sound of footsteps, which he believes to be his lover leaving him. The sense of loss is palpable as the speaker describes the emptiness he feels without his beloved. However, the poem also explores the theme of love, as the speaker’s desperation to find his lover shows the depth of his feelings. The poem is a powerful exploration of the complex emotions that come with love and loss, and it leaves the reader with a sense of longing and melancholy.
The Use of Sound and Imagery in the Poem
In “O What Is That Sound,” W.H. Auden masterfully employs sound and imagery to create a haunting and enigmatic atmosphere. The poem begins with the repeated question, “O what is that sound,” which immediately draws the reader in and sets the tone for the rest of the piece. The use of repetition throughout the poem, particularly with the phrase “I do not know,” adds to the sense of uncertainty and unease.
Auden also uses vivid imagery to paint a picture of the scene, describing the “blackened train” and the “white handkerchief” waving in the wind. The contrast between the darkness of the train and the whiteness of the handkerchief creates a striking visual image that adds to the overall sense of mystery and intrigue.
The poem’s use of sound is particularly effective, with the repetition of the question and the use of onomatopoeia such as “thud” and “clang” creating a sense of urgency and danger. The final lines of the poem, with the repeated phrase “I do not know,” leave the reader with a sense of unease and uncertainty, as if the mystery of the sound will never be fully resolved.
Overall, Auden’s use of sound and imagery in “O What Is That Sound” creates a powerful and haunting atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.
The Historical Context of the Poem
W.H. Auden’s “O What Is That Sound” was written in the midst of a tumultuous time in history. The poem was published in 1936, a year before the outbreak of World War II. Auden, a British poet, was living in Germany at the time and witnessed firsthand the rise of Nazi power. This historical context is important to understanding the themes and imagery in the poem. The fear and uncertainty of the impending war are reflected in the haunting sound that the speaker hears. The poem also touches on themes of love, loss, and the fragility of human life, which were all relevant in the context of the looming war. Overall, the historical context of the poem adds depth and meaning to its enigmatic imagery and themes.
The Reception and Interpretation of the Poem
The reception and interpretation of W.H. Auden’s “O What Is That Sound” has been varied and complex. Some readers have interpreted the poem as a commentary on the horrors of war, while others have seen it as a meditation on the fragility of human relationships. Still others have read the poem as a warning against the dangers of conformity and the suppression of individuality. Despite these differing interpretations, one thing is clear: “O What Is That Sound” remains a powerful and enigmatic elegy that continues to captivate readers and provoke thought.
The Influence of ‘O What Is That Sound’ on Literature and Culture
W.H. Auden’s poem “O What Is That Sound” has had a significant impact on literature and culture since its publication in 1936. The poem’s haunting imagery and enigmatic tone have inspired countless writers and artists over the years, and its themes of fear, uncertainty, and the fragility of human life continue to resonate with readers today. In particular, the poem’s exploration of the horrors of war and the toll it takes on individuals and society has been a major influence on anti-war literature and activism. Additionally, the poem’s use of repetition and sound effects has inspired musicians and composers, who have created numerous adaptations and interpretations of the poem over the years. Overall, “O What Is That Sound” remains a powerful and enduring work of literature that continues to captivate and inspire readers and artists alike.