What Purpose Does Herbert Wish to Fly in the Poem “Easter Wings?”

Answer

Why and for what purpose does Herbert wish to fly in the poem “Easter Wings?” 

George Herbert’s (1593-1633) “Easter Wings” was first published in Herbert’s posthumous collection, The Temple, in 1633. In this poem, the poet wishes to fly to rise above his suffering and achieve spiritual redemption. Herbert was a 17th-century poet and an Anglican priest who believed deeply in the power of faith and devotion to God.

Overcome the Pain and Hardships: The poem is literally shaped like wings, visually reinforcing the message of ascent and elevation. By flying, Herbert expresses his desire to overcome his pain and hardships. He wants to show that through his faith in God, he can rise above the difficulties and sins that have weighed him down.

Rise Higher from Sin with God’s Help: Herbert starts the poem by talking about Adam, the first man created by God in the Bible, who sinned and fell from grace.

Lord, who createdst man in wealth and store,

Though foolishly he lost the same,

This fall led to suffering and separation from God. Similarly, Herbert feels that he has fallen into sorrow and shame due to his sins. Hence, he wishes to fly away from his sins. It presents an opportunity for him to rise even higher through God’s help.

Ressurection like Jesus Christ: Herbert connects his own suffering to the suffering of Jesus Christ, who died on the cross and rose again on Easter Sunday. This resurrection is central to the Christian faith as it symbolizes victory over sin and death. By linking his struggles to Christ’s, Herbert expresses his hope that he, too, can experience a kind of resurrection. He hopes to attach his wings to God’s, symbolically rising and flying with Him. The poet says,

    O let me rise

As larks, harmoniously,

To wrap up, this flight aims to achieve spiritual freedom and redemption. Herbert wants to be close to God and relieve his pain.