Student Question
What are the various meanings of "lines" and "suit" in "The Collar", and how do they function?
Quick answer:
In "The Collar," "lines" refers to the imagery of ropes and cables, symbolizing freedom from restraint, as the speaker claims his "lines and life" are free. "Suit" initially refers to a priest's collar or a subservient role, indicating a desire to please. Later, it suggests fitting or satisfying one's needs, with a possible pun on "pursuit," reflecting the speaker's wish to escape religious duties.
"Lines" is connected to the ropes and cable imagery used throughout the poem. In line 4, the speaker claims that his "lines and life" are free. In this instance, it seems that he means that he is note tied to anything; nothing has control of him. Even the "lines" he now utters are free and unrestrained. The "suit" in line 6 most probably refers to the priest's collar or to a subservient role of one who seeks to please, as "in suit." The second time the word is used, it seems to be a more modern use of the word such as to be fitting or to satisfy, for in this line the speaker denounces those who do not suit their needs. But perhaps the speaker is also punning in both instance on "pursuit." The speaker seeks to free himself from the "pursuit" of his religious responsibilities.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.