Mary Oliver’s poem “When Death Comes” explores the inevitability of death and the way we choose to live our lives in the face of it. This critical examination of the poem delves into the themes of mortality, nature, and spirituality that Oliver explores, and considers the impact of her words on readers who are grappling with their own mortality. Through a close reading of the poem and an exploration of Oliver’s life and work, this article offers insights into the power of poetry to help us confront the most profound questions of human existence.
Background Information on Mary Oliver
Mary Oliver was an American poet who was born in Maple Heights, Ohio, in 1935. She was known for her nature poetry and her ability to capture the beauty and wonder of the natural world. Oliver published her first collection of poems, No Voyage and Other Poems, in 1963, and went on to publish over 15 more collections throughout her career. She won numerous awards for her work, including the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1984 for her collection American Primitive. Oliver passed away in 2019 at the age of 83, leaving behind a legacy of poetry that continues to inspire and move readers. Her poem “When Death Comes” is a powerful reflection on the inevitability of death and the importance of living a meaningful life.
An Overview of “When Death Comes”
Mary Oliver’s poem “When Death Comes” is a powerful and thought-provoking piece that explores the inevitability of death and the importance of living fully in the present moment. The poem is structured around a series of questions and answers, with Oliver reflecting on what it means to truly embrace life and face death with courage and grace. Throughout the poem, Oliver uses vivid imagery and language to convey the beauty and fragility of life, as well as the profound sense of awe and wonder that can be found in even the most mundane moments. Ultimately, “When Death Comes” is a deeply moving and inspiring work that encourages readers to live their lives to the fullest and embrace the mystery and beauty of the world around them.
The Theme of Death in Oliver’s Poetry
Mary Oliver’s poetry is known for its deep connection to nature and the spiritual world. However, one recurring theme in her work is the inevitability of death. Oliver’s poem “When Death Comes” is a prime example of this theme. In the poem, Oliver reflects on the idea of death and how it should be embraced rather than feared. She writes, “When it’s over, I want to say: all my life / I was a bride married to amazement.” This line suggests that death is not an end, but rather a continuation of the wonder and amazement that life brings. Oliver’s poetry reminds us that death is a natural part of life and that we should not be afraid of it. Instead, we should embrace it and live our lives to the fullest, just as Oliver did in her own writing.
The Use of Metaphors and Imagery in “When Death Comes”
In “When Death Comes,” Mary Oliver employs a variety of metaphors and imagery to explore the concept of death. One of the most striking metaphors she uses is that of the “black wings” of death, which she describes as “a bride’s veil / falling softly / to the floor.” This image suggests both the finality and the beauty of death, as well as the idea that death is a natural part of the cycle of life. Oliver also uses imagery to convey the idea that death is not something to be feared, but rather a necessary and even welcome part of existence. For example, she writes of “the blue river” that “runs in my mind,” suggesting that death is a peaceful and natural transition from one state of being to another. Overall, Oliver’s use of metaphors and imagery in “When Death Comes” helps to create a powerful and thought-provoking meditation on the nature of mortality and the human experience.
The Role of Nature in Oliver’s Poetry
Mary Oliver’s poetry is often characterized by her deep connection to nature. In her poem “When Death Comes,” Oliver explores the role of nature in our lives and how it can provide comfort and solace in the face of death. Throughout the poem, Oliver uses vivid imagery to describe the natural world, from the “wild geese” flying overhead to the “black branches” of trees reaching towards the sky.
For Oliver, nature is not just a backdrop for human experience, but an integral part of it. She writes, “I don’t want to end up simply having visited this world.” Instead, she wants to fully immerse herself in the natural world and find meaning in its beauty and complexity. This is evident in lines like, “I want to be a bride married to amazement” and “I want to walk in the fields / and the woods, / and not feel / lonely.”
Oliver’s poetry often celebrates the small moments of beauty and wonder that can be found in nature, from the “soft animal of [her] body” to the “golden eyes” of a fox. In “When Death Comes,” she suggests that these moments can help us confront our mortality and find peace in the face of death. She writes, “I don’t want to end up simply having visited this world / .I want to feel the light / that shines out of the darkness.”
Overall, Oliver’s poetry emphasizes the importance of our connection to the natural world and the ways in which it can provide us with comfort and meaning. In “When Death Comes,” she reminds us that even in the face of death, nature can offer us solace and a sense of wonder.
The Relationship Between Life and Death in “When Death Comes”
In Mary Oliver’s poem “When Death Comes,” the relationship between life and death is explored in a profound and thought-provoking way. The poem suggests that death is not something to be feared or avoided, but rather an integral part of the cycle of life. Oliver writes, “When it’s over, I want to say: all my life / I was a bride married to amazement. / I was the bridegroom, taking the world into my arms.” This passage suggests that life is a celebration, and that death is simply the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. Oliver’s poem encourages readers to embrace life fully, and to accept death as a natural and necessary part of the human experience.
The Significance of the Title
The title of a poem is often the first thing a reader encounters, and it can set the tone for the entire piece. In Mary Oliver’s “When Death Comes,” the title immediately suggests that the poem will deal with the topic of death. However, the title also implies that death is not something to be feared or avoided, but rather something to be embraced as a natural part of life. This idea is reinforced throughout the poem, as Oliver explores the ways in which death can give meaning and purpose to our lives. By choosing such a bold and provocative title, Oliver invites readers to confront their own mortality and consider what it means to truly live.
The Structure of “When Death Comes”
The structure of Mary Oliver’s poem “When Death Comes” is unique and deliberate. The poem is divided into three stanzas, each with varying line lengths and structures. The first stanza is composed of short, declarative sentences that set the tone for the rest of the poem. The second stanza is longer and more contemplative, with longer lines and a more complex structure. The final stanza is the shortest, with only three lines, but it is the most powerful and impactful. The structure of the poem mirrors the journey of the speaker as she grapples with the concept of death and ultimately comes to a place of acceptance and understanding. Oliver’s use of structure adds depth and meaning to the poem, making it a powerful meditation on life and death.
The Tone and Mood of the Poem
The tone and mood of Mary Oliver’s poem “When Death Comes” are contemplative and reflective. The speaker is not afraid of death but rather curious about it. The tone is also hopeful, as the speaker believes that death is not an end but a new beginning. The mood is peaceful and serene, as the speaker describes the natural world and its cycles. The use of imagery and metaphors creates a sense of harmony and balance, which contributes to the overall mood of the poem. The tone and mood of “When Death Comes” invite the reader to reflect on their own mortality and to embrace the inevitability of death as a natural part of life.
The Poem’s Message and Its Relevance Today
Mary Oliver’s poem “When Death Comes” is a powerful reflection on the inevitability of death and the importance of living fully in the present moment. The poem’s message is particularly relevant today, as we navigate a world that is constantly changing and uncertain. In a time when many of us are facing unprecedented challenges and struggles, Oliver’s words offer a reminder to embrace life with open arms and to find meaning and purpose in the face of adversity. Whether we are grappling with personal loss or global crises, “When Death Comes” encourages us to live with courage, curiosity, and compassion, and to cherish every moment we have on this earth. As Oliver writes, “I don’t want to end up simply having visited this world.” Instead, let us strive to make the most of our time here, and to leave a positive impact on those around us.
The Influence of “When Death Comes” on Oliver’s Legacy
Mary Oliver’s poem “When Death Comes” has had a profound impact on her legacy as a poet. The poem, which explores the inevitability of death and the importance of living fully, has resonated with readers around the world. Oliver’s use of vivid imagery and simple language has made the poem accessible to a wide audience, and its message has inspired countless individuals to live more meaningful lives.
One of the key ways in which “When Death Comes” has influenced Oliver’s legacy is by cementing her reputation as a poet who is unafraid to tackle big, existential questions. The poem is a testament to Oliver’s ability to grapple with complex ideas in a way that is both profound and accessible. It is a reminder that poetry can be a powerful tool for exploring the human experience, and that even the most daunting topics can be approached with grace and sensitivity.
Another way in which “When Death Comes” has influenced Oliver’s legacy is by serving as a kind of manifesto for her work. The poem’s emphasis on the importance of living fully and embracing the natural world is a recurring theme in Oliver’s poetry. It is a reminder that, for Oliver, poetry is not just an intellectual exercise, but a way of engaging with the world and finding meaning in everyday experiences.
Overall, “When Death Comes” has had a profound impact on Oliver’s legacy as a poet. Its message of living fully and embracing the natural world has resonated with readers around the world, and its influence can be seen in the many poets who have been inspired by Oliver’s work. As we continue to grapple with the big questions of life and death, “When Death Comes” will undoubtedly remain a touchstone for those seeking wisdom and insight.
The Poem’s Reception and Criticisms
Mary Oliver’s poem “When Death Comes” has received both praise and criticism since its publication in 1992. Many readers have found the poem to be a powerful and thought-provoking meditation on mortality, while others have criticized it for being overly simplistic or sentimental. Some have also questioned Oliver’s use of religious language and imagery, arguing that it may alienate readers who do not share her beliefs. Despite these criticisms, however, “When Death Comes” remains a widely-read and beloved poem, and its themes of acceptance, gratitude, and the beauty of the natural world continue to resonate with readers of all backgrounds.
The Connection Between “When Death Comes” and Other Poems by Oliver
Mary Oliver’s poem “When Death Comes” is a powerful and thought-provoking piece that explores the inevitability of death and the importance of living fully in the present moment. However, this poem is not the only one in Oliver’s body of work that deals with these themes. In fact, many of her poems touch on similar ideas and can be seen as part of a larger conversation about life, death, and the human experience.
For example, in “The Summer Day,” Oliver asks the question, “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” This line echoes the sentiment of “When Death Comes,” which urges readers to “decide / how you will walk, how you will talk, / what you will love, and what you will not.” Both poems encourage readers to live fully and intentionally, recognizing the fleeting nature of life and the importance of making the most of the time we have.
Similarly, in “Wild Geese,” Oliver writes, “You do not have to be good. / You do not have to walk on your knees / for a hundred miles through the desert, repenting.” This line speaks to the idea that we should not waste our time and energy on things that do not truly matter, but instead focus on living authentically and embracing our true selves. This sentiment is echoed in “When Death Comes,” which urges readers to “let the soft animal of your body / love what it loves.”
Overall, while “When Death Comes” is a powerful and important poem in its own right, it is also part of a larger conversation about life, death, and the human experience that can be seen throughout Mary Oliver’s body of work. By exploring the connections between this poem and others in Oliver’s oeuvre, we can gain a deeper understanding of her philosophy and the themes that she grappled with throughout her life and career.
The Importance of “When Death Comes” in Contemporary Poetry
Contemporary poetry has always been a reflection of the times we live in. It is a medium through which poets express their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Death, being an inevitable part of life, has always been a recurring theme in poetry. However, Mary Oliver’s poem “When Death Comes” stands out as a critical examination of death and its significance in contemporary poetry.
Oliver’s poem is a celebration of life and an acceptance of death. It is a reminder that death is not something to be feared but rather embraced as a natural part of the cycle of life. The poem’s opening lines, “When death comes like the hungry bear in autumn,” set the tone for the rest of the poem. Oliver uses vivid imagery to describe death, comparing it to a hungry bear, a fierce wind, and a great wave. These images are not meant to scare the reader but rather to emphasize the inevitability of death and the need to accept it.
The poem’s central message is that we should live our lives to the fullest and not be afraid of death. Oliver writes, “I don’t want to end up simply having visited this world.” This line is a call to action, urging the reader to make the most of their time on earth. The poem also emphasizes the importance of being present in the moment and appreciating the beauty of the world around us. Oliver writes, “I want to be a bride married to amazement.” This line is a reminder that life is full of wonder and that we should take the time to appreciate it.
In conclusion, “When Death Comes” is an important poem in contemporary poetry because it challenges our perceptions of death and encourages us to live our lives to the fullest. Oliver’s use of vivid imagery and powerful language makes the poem a memorable and thought-provoking piece of literature. It is a reminder that death is not something to be feared but rather embraced as a natural part of the cycle of life.
An Analysis of the Language and Diction in the Poem
In “When Death Comes,” Mary Oliver’s language and diction are simple yet powerful. The poem is written in free verse, with no set rhyme or meter, allowing the words to flow naturally and create a sense of ease and comfort. Oliver’s use of imagery is particularly striking, as she paints vivid pictures of nature and the natural world. For example, she describes the grass as “the beautiful uncut hair of graves,” and the trees as “the tall, spare, attentive lilies.” These images not only add to the poem’s beauty but also serve to remind the reader of the cyclical nature of life and death. Oliver’s diction is also noteworthy, as she uses words that are both accessible and profound. She speaks of “the soft animal of your body,” and “the black wings of the trees,” creating a sense of intimacy and connection with the reader. Overall, Oliver’s language and diction in “When Death Comes” are masterful, conveying complex ideas and emotions with simplicity and grace.
The Poem’s Symbolism and Allegory
Mary Oliver’s poem “When Death Comes” is a powerful exploration of the human experience of mortality. One of the most striking aspects of the poem is its use of symbolism and allegory to convey its message. Throughout the poem, Oliver employs a range of images and metaphors that serve to deepen the reader’s understanding of the themes of life, death, and the natural world.
One of the most prominent symbols in the poem is the image of the “black wings” of death. This image is used repeatedly throughout the poem, and serves to convey the sense of inevitability and finality that is associated with death. The wings are described as “a promise / that she will keep,” suggesting that death is an inescapable part of the human experience.
Another important symbol in the poem is the image of the “wild geese” that fly overhead. These birds are used to represent the natural world, and serve as a reminder of the beauty and power of the natural world. The geese are described as “calling out / with their bold and beautiful voices,” suggesting that nature is a source of strength and inspiration for those who are facing the end of their lives.
Finally, the poem makes use of allegory to convey its message. The speaker of the poem is portrayed as a pilgrim, journeying through life and seeking to understand the mysteries of existence. This allegory serves to emphasize the idea that life is a journey, and that death is simply the final destination.
Overall, the symbolism and allegory in “When Death Comes” serve to deepen the reader’s understanding of the poem’s themes and message. By using powerful images and metaphors, Mary Oliver is able to convey the complex emotions and ideas that are associated with the human experience of mortality.
The Relationship Between Oliver’s Life and “When Death Comes”
Oliver’s poem “When Death Comes” is a reflection on the inevitability of death and the importance of living fully in the present moment. The poem is deeply personal, and it is clear that Oliver’s own experiences and beliefs have influenced its creation. In many ways, Oliver’s life can be seen as a reflection of the themes and ideas presented in “When Death Comes.”
Oliver was known for her love of nature and her ability to find beauty in the world around her. This appreciation for the natural world is evident in “When Death Comes,” where Oliver writes about the importance of being “a bride married to amazement” and of “letting the soft animal of your body love what it loves.” Oliver’s connection to nature is also reflected in her own life, as she spent much of her time outdoors and wrote extensively about the natural world.
Another theme in “When Death Comes” is the idea of living in the present moment and not taking life for granted. Oliver writes, “I don’t want to end up simply having visited this world.” This sentiment is echoed in Oliver’s own life, as she was known for her mindfulness and her ability to appreciate the small moments in life. She often wrote about the importance of paying attention to the world around us and of living in the present moment.
Overall, it is clear that Oliver’s own experiences and beliefs have influenced the creation of “When Death Comes.” The poem is a reflection of Oliver’s love of nature, her mindfulness, and her belief in the importance of living fully in the present moment. By examining Oliver’s life, we can gain a deeper understanding of the themes and ideas presented in this powerful poem.
The Poem’s Impact on Readers and Society
Mary Oliver’s poem “When Death Comes” has had a profound impact on readers and society since its publication in 1992. The poem’s exploration of death and the meaning of life has resonated with many individuals, prompting them to reflect on their own mortality and the importance of living fully in the present moment.
The poem’s impact on society can be seen in the numerous references to it in popular culture, including in films, television shows, and music. Its message of embracing life and accepting death has also influenced the work of other writers and poets.
Furthermore, “When Death Comes” has been used in various therapeutic settings, such as hospice care and grief counseling, to help individuals come to terms with their own mortality and the loss of loved ones.
Overall, Mary Oliver’s poem has left a lasting impression on readers and society, inspiring individuals to live more fully and appreciate the beauty of life, even in the face of death.