What is the poet’s position and attitude in “To Daffodils”

What is the poet’s position and attitude in the poem? How does he express this?

Robert Herrick’s (1591 – 1674) poem “To Daffodils” (1648) reflects his deep feelings about the shortness of life. The poet uses the daffodils as a symbol of human life. Through this poem, he shares his sorrow about how quickly beautiful things fade away. His position is subjective, and his attitude is one of sadness and acceptance.

Poet’s Position – Subjective: The poet writes from a personal perspective. He compares the daffodils’ short life to human life. The poet says,

“We have short time to stay, as you,”

This shows that the poem reflects his own thoughts and emotions. Herrick feels connected to the daffodils. He sees them as a mirror of human existence.

Attitude of Sadness: Herrick expresses sadness about the fleeting nature of life. He weeps to see the daffodils fade so quickly. He says,

“Fair Daffodils, we weep to see

You haste away so soon;”

The poet feels that both humans and nature share the same fate. This sorrowful tone reflects his deep awareness of mortality.

Expression through Imagery: The poet uses vivid imagery to express his feelings. He describes life as short as “the pearls of morning’s dew.” Daffodils and humans both “dry away,” emphasizing life’s fragility. He also compares life to “summer’s rain,” which disappears without a trace. Though the poet is sad, he accepts this reality. He suggests that we should love life before it fades. The idea of praying together shows the poet’s calm acceptance of death.

Herrick’s position is personal and reflective, while his attitude shows sadness and understanding. By comparing daffodils to human life, he beautifully conveys the fleeting nature of existence. The poem encourages us to value the moments we have.