How is ‘After the Funeral’ an Elegy?
After the Funeral is a notable literary work by Dylan Thomas. 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, to various questions of After the Funeral.
Answer
How is ‘After the Funeral’ an elegy?
Dylan Thomas’s (1914-53) “After the Funeral (In memory of Ann Jones)” (1953) is a deeply moving elegy. It is a poem that mourns the loss of a loved one. In this case, the poem reflects on the life and death of Ann Jones. Here are key reasons why this poem is an elegy:
Expression of Grief: The poem begins with vivid imagery that captures the chaotic and painful emotions following a funeral. Lines like “mule praises, brays” and “Windshake of sailshaped ears” express the confusion and sorrow felt by the mourners. The poet’s grief is noticeable throughout the poem, especially when he describes the sorrowful scene:
The spittled eyes, the salt ponds in the sleeves,
This line highlights the tears and sadness of those left behind.
Reflection on the Deceased’s Life: Thomas reflects on Ann Jones’s life. He portrays her as a humble and modest person. He describes her “meek as milk” flesh and remembers her “scrubbed and sour humble hands.” These lines paint a picture of Ann’s simple and hardworking nature. The poet honours her memory by recalling these details, which is a common feature of elegies. Here, the life of the deceased is remembered and celebrated.
Confrontation with Death: The poem does not shy away from the harsh reality of death. Phrases like “blinds down the lids, the teeth in black” and “Morning smack of the spade that wakes up sleep” bring forth the physical and final aspects of dying and burial. By confronting death directly, the poem helps the reader to understand the poet’s profound sense of loss.
Search for Consolation: While the poem is filled with sorrow, it also seeks some form of consolation. Thomas envisions a kind of eternal memory for Ann, where her virtues continue to resonate. He calls upon the natural world. He hopes that her spirit remains alive in the memories of those who knew her. The poem ends on a somewhat hopeful note, with the
stuffed lung of the fox twitch and cry Love
And the strutting fern lay seeds on the black sill,
It suggests that love and life persist even after death.
In conclusion, Dylan Thomas’s “After the Funeral” is an elegy. Through powerful imagery and emotional depth, Thomas captures the sense of mourning and remembrance. This makes this poem a significant tribute to Ann Jones.