Themes: The Condition of Modernity

As both a poet and critic, T. S. Eliot investigated Western cultural history. Eliot was particularly interested in modern history, which begins with the Renaissance in the 15th century. From his 20th-century vantage point, Eliot was of the opinion that Western culture is in a state of decline and therefore that early modernity (the 15th through 18th centuries) surpasses late modernity (the 18th century onward). “The Love Song of J. Alfred...

Themes: The Crisis of Mortality

Prufrock faces the threat and mystery of time. In the poem’s early passages, Prufrock repeats to himself the reassuring refrain, “And indeed there will be time.” Yet beneath Prufrock’s attempted calm, he understands that time is an antagonist, a force that will draw him closer to his ultimate destiny. The menace of mortality first rears its head when Prufrock claims to have “Time to turn back and descend the stair, / With a bald spot in the...

Themes: The Overwhelming Question

Perhaps the central thematic and tonal tension in the poem is between the mundane, day-to-day world Prufrock inhabits and the internal world in which his spiritual crisis unfolds. The mundane world is London, both seedy and dainty, full of “one-night cheap hotels,” “the soot that falls from chimneys,” and “the cups, the marmalade, the tea.” The internal world is where Prufrock reflects on his experiences and considers daring to ask the...

Themes: Alienation

The theme of alienation is central to "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock." The poem portrays the inner turmoil and isolation of its protagonist, J. Alfred Prufrock, as he navigates a modern world filled with uncertainty and superficiality. Through Prufrock's introspective monologue, T. S. Eliot explores the profound sense of disconnection that characterizes the human condition in the modern era.

Prufrock's alienation is evident in his constant...

Themes: Indecision

Indecision is a central theme in "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock." The poem portrays Prufrock as a character paralyzed by his inability to make decisions, reflecting his deep-seated fears and insecurities. This indecision is evident in his constant hesitation and self-doubt, which prevent him from taking action and engaging with the world around him. Prufrock's internal struggle with indecision ultimately leads to his isolation and...

Themes: Insecurity

Insecurity is a central theme in "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock." The poem explores the inner turmoil and self-doubt of the protagonist, J. Alfred Prufrock, as he grapples with his own inadequacies and fears of judgment. Prufrock's insecurity manifests in his hesitance to take decisive actions and express his true feelings, particularly in social and romantic contexts. This theme is woven throughout the poem, highlighting Prufrock's...