Comment on the ending of the poem “Thyrsis”.
Thyrsis is a notable literary work by Alfred Lord Tennyson. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of Thyrsis.
Answer
Comment on the ending of the poem “Thyrsis”.
The ending of Matthew Arnold’s (1822-1888) “Thyrsis” (1865) is both sad and hopeful. Throughout the poem, the poet feels deep grief because of the death of his friend Arthur Hugh Clough, whom he calls “Thyrsis.” But in the final stanzas, the poem slowly moves toward a positive and uplifting message.
The Symbol of the Tree: At the end, Arnold sees the Tree—a special tree on a hill that he and his friend used to visit. Though he cannot reach the tree because of the night fog, he is happy to know that “our tree yet crowns the hill.” This tree becomes a strong symbol of hope and memory. It means that the spirit of his friend still lives on in nature and in the poet’s heart.
The Scholar Gipsy Still Lives: Arnold also brings back the image of the Scholar Gipsy, the symbol of hope and truth. He says the Scholar Gipsy still travels through the beautiful hillside. It means the dream or the search for truth, beauty, and purity has not ended. It continues even after Thyrsis is gone.
A Gentle Message: The poem ends with a gentle whisper of encouragement. Arnold imagines Thyrsis telling him:
“Roam on! The light we sought is shining still.”
This gives the poem a hopeful and peaceful ending.
In conclusion, the ending of “Thyrsis” is very touching. It gives a message of hope after sorrow. Though the friend is gone, his memory and the search for truth still continue in the poet’s heart and in the peaceful Oxford countryside.