Easter Wings is a notable literary work by George Herbert. 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,
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Answer
Explain the significance of larks flying upwards in the poem “Easter Wings.”
Or, Why and for what purpose does Herbert wish to fly in the poem “Easter Wings”?
Or, Why does Herbert wish to fly in the poem “Easter Wings”?
In “Easter Wings” (1633), George Herbert (1593-1633) uses the idea of flying like larks to show his desire to become close to God. He wants to rise above his sin and suffering. He also wants to feel the joy of devotion by flying close to God.
The Reason for Wanting to Fly: At the beginning, Herbert says that God created man in “wealth and store.” This means God created man as happy and blessed. But they lost everything by sin. As a result, they became “most poore”—spiritually weak and low. Herbert also talks about his own sin and suffering. He faced pain, sadness, and shame from a young age. So, he wants to fly out of his suffering and sin.
Significance of Flying as Larks: Here, flying as a lark is a symbol of rising above sin and suffering. The poet can do this by his devotion to God. So, Herbert prays to God to help him rise up, just like a lark. He says:
“O let me rise
As larks, harmoniously”
Here, “larks” are birds that fly high and sing beautifully. Herbert wants to rise with joy and sing praises to God. The poet also wants to combine his wings with God’s. This means if God gives him strength, he will fly higher. He will be saved from sorrow and suffering.
In short, “Easter Wings” is a fine religious poem. The poet wants to rise above his sin and suffering by flying as a lark. He also wants to sing praises to God with joy.
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