Analysis
John Masefield's literary legacy is marked by his deep empathy for the downtrodden and his philosophical reflections on life. Despite being best known for his sea poems, Masefield’s body of work encompasses a wide range of themes, from the beauty of nature to the inevitable tragedies of human existence. His poetry often weaves intricate narratives with a philosophical undertone, merging the harsh realities of life with an appreciation for its fleeting beauty. This duality is a hallmark of his work, making his contributions to literature both unique and profound.
Masefield’s Early Influences
Masefield’s life experiences heavily influenced his writing. Born into poverty and plagued by health issues, his hardships fostered an introspective view of the world. This perspective is reflected in his poetry, which often gravitates towards the tragic dimensions of human life, rather than indulging in mere humor or frivolity. Although he is celebrated for his engaging sea narratives, Masefield prioritized his philosophical compositions, which delve into deeper existential themes. His choice to speak in the vernacular about everyday experiences allowed him to reach a broad audience, while simultaneously expressing a profound empathy for society's marginalized.
The Sea as Metaphor
Masefield's seafaring poems are steeped in the ballad tradition, characterized by their narrative-driven structure and lyrical quality. "Sea Fever," perhaps his most famous poem, encapsulates the tension between the sea's allure and its inherent dangers. The poem's refrain, "I must go down to the seas again," conveys an irresistible pull, likening the sea to an addiction. This imagery evokes the life of the wandering gypsy, or even the bird and the whale, creatures bound to the sea's call. The poem artfully captures the sea's dual nature: a source of freedom and beauty, yet also of isolation and peril. Masefield's use of language transforms the sea journey into a metaphorical life journey, culminating in the longing for "quiet sleep and a sweet dream when the long trick's over." The metaphor of the "long trick," grounded in nautical jargon, transcends its literal meaning to symbolize life's ultimate journey.
Imagery in "Cargoes"
In "Cargoes," Masefield employs imagistic techniques to depict three ships from different eras. Through vivid, evocative descriptions, he juxtaposes the opulent imagery of ancient vessels with the gritty reality of modern freighters. The poem’s structure, devoid of a narrative voice or storyline, invites readers to draw their own connections. The final stanza, featuring a British coaster laden with mundane cargo, serves as an ironic commentary on industrial progress. Despite its lack of glamour compared to its predecessors, the modern ship represents the enduring legacy of maritime tradition. Masefield’s metrical choices, including the strategic use of spondees, imbue the verse with a sense of strength and continuity.
Critique of Urban and Rural Life in "London Town"
Masefield's reflections on urban and rural life are poignantly expressed in "London Town." Here, he contrasts the bustling life of the city with the serenity of the countryside. The poem alternates between praising London's vibrancy and lamenting its inherent deficiencies, underscoring the alienation and materialism found within urban environments. In counterpoint, the countryside is celebrated for its simplicity and peace, presented as Masefield’s true spiritual home. The poet’s personal connection to the landscape is emphasized by his use of joyful refrains and positive imagery, illustrating a longing for nature’s restorative power. This duality highlights the tragedy of city life, where beneath the veneer of cultural and artistic achievements lies enduring human misery.
Narrative and Redemption in "The Everlasting Mercy"
"The Everlasting Mercy" exemplifies Masefield's commitment to exploring the lives of the marginalized through narrative poetry. The protagonist, Saul Kane, is a flawed figure whose journey...
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from debauchery to redemption mirrors the themes found in medieval texts like "Piers Plowman." The poem’s monologue format allows Saul to recount his misdeeds and the subsequent spiritual awakening that leads him towards a life of repentance. Masefield infuses the narrative with religious allegory and mystical imagery, presenting Saul’s conversion as both a personal and universal experience. The poem's culminating transformation, where Saul assumes the role of a Christ-like plowman, underscores the redemptive potential inherent in human existence, even amidst its inherent tragedies.
Philosophical Musings in "CLM"
Among Masefield's lesser-known works, "CLM" stands out for its deep philosophical exploration of motherhood and mortality. Written during a turbulent period in his personal life, the poem reflects on the complex interplay between life and death. Through vivid imagery, Masefield portrays the fetus as both a part of nature and a consuming force within the mother’s body. The poem’s narrative conveys a profound sense of loss and indebtedness, as the speaker grapples with the legacy of his deceased mother. His contemplation of the grave as both a final resting place and a source of shame adds a layer of irony to the poem’s exploration of life’s inevitable cycle.
The Pursuit of Beauty in "Dauber"
"Dauber," another significant narrative poem, encapsulates Masefield’s fascination with beauty and artistic aspiration. The protagonist, a young artist turned sailor, embodies the pursuit of capturing the sea’s essence through art. His journey is fraught with challenges, as his shipmates fail to appreciate his vision, ultimately destroying his work. The artist's tragic death during a storm signifies the enduring nature of his artistic quest. Even in death, his declaration, "It will go on," suggests the perpetuity of beauty and art, unfettered by individual mortality. This narrative underscores Masefield’s belief in the vital role of the artist in immortalizing transient beauty.
Beauty, Death, and the Quest for Meaning
Masefield’s sonnets further explore the themes of beauty, death, and their interconnectedness. He perceives beauty as both an intrinsic part of nature and a transcendent force that endures beyond the physical realm. Beauty, in his poetry, serves as a bridge between life and the afterlife, offering a glimpse into a world where tragedy and mortality are transcended. His sonnet, "On Growing Old," reflects this philosophy, as the speaker seeks wisdom and passion—the sustenance of life—rather than the return of youth. Masefield’s work often embodies a quest for beauty, positioning it as both an elusive ideal and a guiding force amidst the inevitable progression towards death.
Through his poetic works, John Masefield invites readers to contemplate the delicate balance between life's fleeting beauty and its inherent tragedies. His narratives, rich with empathy and philosophical depth, offer a window into the human condition, encouraging a reflection on the universal themes of mortality, redemption, and the enduring quest for meaning and beauty.
