The Death of the Hired Man : summary

Robert Frost‘s (1874-1963) poem “Death of the Hired Man” begins with a conversation between a farming couple. The husband’s name is Warren, and the wife’s name is Mary. They were debating whether or not to hire their old man, Silas, again.

Silas had been working in their home for many years. But after finding a better job, he left the job, which Warren didn’t like at all. But now he has returned to their home. Mary waited for her husband to return from the market. As Warren arrives, Mary tells him about Silas. She also warns him not to misbehave with Silas.

Because he is very sad and sick, Mary is a very kind woman. She still speaks sincerely to Silas. Mary tries to persuade Warren in various ways, but he refuses. Because Silas left work when he was most needed during the harvest, and he always came back (in winter) when there was nothing to give him.

The reason Silas left his job here was that he wasn’t getting enough wages from Warren. Wages are not increased even if asked to increase. Unable to find a solution, he left the job. Yet Mary tries to convince Warren again and again. She finally manages to convince him and reveals that Silas is asleep by the stove. Warren then goes to inquire, but moments later, he returns and reveals that Silas is dead. This is how the poem ends.