Comment on the use of imagery and symbols in ‘Poem in October’.
Poem in October 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, and various study materials of Poem in October.
Answer
Comment on the use of imagery and symbols in ‘Poem in October’.
“Poem in October” by Dylan Thomas (1914-53) is an iconic poem that employs vivid imagery and symbols to capture the essence of a birthday morning. This poem was composed in 1944. It reflects on the poet’s thirtieth birthday and the tranquil beauty of nature. “Dylan Thomas’s ‘Poem in October’ is a masterpiece exploration of the passage of time, memory, and the interconnectedness of nature and human experience. Thomas uses vivid imagery and symbols throughout the poem to express his themes. It creates a rich and evocative landscape that invites readers to delve into the deepness of his reflection.
Imagery
Visual Imagery: Thomas employs visual imagery to create a detailed picture of the setting. The poem describes “the shore, the rocks, and the caves,” which helps the reader imagine the coastal landscape. He uses vivid visual descriptions to convey the transition from night to dawn, such as “the night above the dingle starry” and “the sabbath hills.” The image of “the town asleep” paints a serene and quiet scene, enhancing the sense of solitude and reflection.
Auditory Imagery: Auditory imagery is prevalent in the poem as the poet describes the sounds of nature and the environment, such as “the morning beckon” and “the birds in the trees.” The “sea murmurs” and “the slow parish bells” create a gentle and soothing auditory backdrop to the poem.
Nature Imagery: Nature is a central theme in the poem, and the imagery of the sea, sky, hills, and trees connects the poet with the natural world. Thomas personifies nature as “the unripe apple on the bough,” which suggests a sense of continuity and growth.
The poem exudes a nostalgic atmosphere. It evokes memories of the poet’s past experiences and emotions. The poet says,
“my birthday began with the water-”
It mentions what could be a reference to the poet’s birthday and the significance of this day.
Emotional Imagery: As Thomas uses vivid descriptions to convey his feelings and memories, the poem is filled with emotional