Themes: Desire Versus Obligation
The narrator describes the woods with careful attention to detail: watching the woods "fill up with snow" (line 4) and the soft impressions of sounds, "of easy wind and downy flake" (line 12), where there is otherwise only the preternatural stillness of the natural world thus far, untouched by movement or noise from an outside force. That the narrator is so clear and delicate in his description underscores the longing he feels toward visiting the woods, the desire he has to remain watching or even to explore that which is "lovely, dark and deep" (line 13).
And yet, in the very next line, the paradox is revealed: He wishes to remain, but he has
promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep. (lines 14–16)
Here is a pull to which anyone can easily relate: the daydream versus the real world, play versus work, fun versus duty. There is real want in the fact that the sight of the woods has pulled the man to a stop at all—and still he goes on, denying his want, out of loyalty to a different value.
Expert Q&A
What does "and miles to go before I sleep" mean in "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening"?
In "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening," the meaning of the line "And miles to go before I sleep" has been contested, but generally it refers to the speaker's temptation to avoid his obligations. Though the speaker would rather remain in the "lovely" woods, he is aware of his duties elsewhere and knows that he must go farther, physically and metaphorically, before he can finally rest.
Can you explain the line, "And miles to go before I sleep," from the poem?
The line "And miles to go before I sleep" from the poem can be interpreted in various ways. Some readers see it as a reflection on the speaker's many responsibilities and obligations that prevent him from resting. Others interpret it more literally, suggesting the speaker must continue his journey despite the temptation to stop and enjoy the beauty of the woods. A darker interpretation views it as a contemplation of suicide, with "sleep" symbolizing death.
What are the opposites presented in "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening"?
"Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening" presents several opposites: the woods versus the village, solitude versus society, appreciation versus indifference to nature, darkness versus light, and silence versus sound. The poem contrasts the peaceful, solitary woods with the populated village, highlights the darkness of the evening, and juxtaposes the silence of the scene with the occasional sound of the horse's bells. Finally, it contrasts the desire to stay with the need to fulfill obligations.
How does the horse serve as a companion to the lone rider in the quiet winter evening? Why does the poet repeat "And miles to go before I sleep"?
The horse in "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening" serves as a companion by reminding the lone rider of his obligations, shaking its sleigh bells when he pauses unexpectedly. The poet repeats "And miles to go before I sleep" to emphasize the speaker's responsibilities and commitments. This repetition underscores the tension between the allure of rest and the necessity to fulfill duties, reflecting both personal obligations and broader societal pressures post-World War II.
What alternative attitudes or actions are implied in "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening"?
In "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening," the speaker faces a choice between pausing to appreciate the woods' beauty or continuing his journey to fulfill obligations. The poem suggests an alternative attitude of contemplation versus action. Some interpretations suggest a deeper, possibly darker choice, where the speaker considers succumbing to despair or even contemplating suicide. Ultimately, he decides to continue his journey, honoring his commitments and choosing life over surrender.
The speaker's motivations and destination in Robert Frost's "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening."
In Robert Frost's "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening," the speaker is motivated by a sense of duty and obligation. Despite being captivated by the serene beauty of the snowy woods, he remembers he has promises to keep and responsibilities to fulfill, which compel him to continue his journey rather than linger.
The inner conflict and its resolution in "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening."
The inner conflict in "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening" is the speaker's temptation to stay and appreciate the peaceful, snowy woods versus the obligation to fulfill duties and responsibilities. The resolution occurs when the speaker decides to leave the enchanting woods, acknowledging that he has "promises to keep" and "miles to go before [he] sleep[s]."
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.
