'End Of The World' by Robinson Jeffers


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When I was young in school in Switzerland, about the time of the Boer War,
We used to take it for known that the human race
Would last the earth out, not dying till the planet died. I wrote a schoolboy poem
About the last man walking in stoic dignity along the dead shore
Of the last sea, alone, alone, alone, remembering all
His racial past. But now I don't think so. They'll die faceless in flocks,
And the earth flourish long after mankind is out.


Submitted by Holt

Editor 1 Interpretation

End Of The World: A Poem That Reflects the End of Human Civilization

Robinson Jeffers' poem "End Of The World" is a classic work of literature that depicts the end of human civilization. The poem is a perfect example of how the poet uses the power of language to convey his message to the reader. This literary criticism and interpretation will explore the themes, imagery, and language used in the poem to show how Jeffers masterfully crafts his work.

Themes in the Poem

The primary theme of the poem is the end of human civilization. Jeffers uses this theme to convey his message about the arrogance and destructive tendencies of humanity. He shows how humans have exploited the earth's resources, causing harm to nature and ultimately leading to their own destruction.

Another theme in the poem is the idea of a cyclical nature of life. Jeffers suggests that life on earth is a cycle of birth and death, and that human civilization is just one part of this cycle. He shows how nature has the power to destroy and renew itself, and that civilization is just a small part of this natural process.

Finally, Jeffers also explores the theme of the human condition. He shows how humans are flawed and prone to destruction, but also how they have the power to create and build. He suggests that human civilization is a double-edged sword, capable of great good and great evil.

Imagery and Symbolism

Jeffers uses powerful imagery and symbolism in the poem to convey his message about the end of human civilization. One of the most striking images in the poem is the "blackening wave," which represents the destruction that humans have caused to the earth.

The image of the "giant fire" is also powerful, representing the destructive power of humanity. Jeffers shows how humans have the power to create fire and use it for good, but also how this same fire can destroy everything in its path.

The image of the "steel needles" is another powerful symbol in the poem. Jeffers uses this image to show how humans have penetrated and exploited the earth's resources, causing harm to nature and ultimately leading to their own destruction.

Finally, the image of the "white silent walkers" is a haunting symbol in the poem. Jeffers uses these walkers to represent the destructive power of nature, which is silent but ever-present.

Language and Tone

Jeffers' use of language and tone in the poem is masterful. He uses a formal, almost archaic tone to convey the gravity of his message. The language is rich and descriptive, with many vivid descriptions of nature and the destruction caused by humans.

The tone of the poem is also powerful, with Jeffers using a mixture of anger and despair to convey his message. He shows how humans have been arrogant and destructive, and that their actions have led to their own destruction. At the same time, he also suggests that there is hope for renewal and regeneration, if humans are willing to change their ways.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Robinson Jeffers' poem "End Of The World" is a powerful work of literature that explores the themes of the end of human civilization, the cyclical nature of life, and the human condition. Jeffers uses powerful imagery and symbolism, as well as a masterful use of language and tone, to convey his message to the reader. The poem is a warning about the destructive tendencies of humanity, but also a message of hope for renewal and regeneration.

Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation

End of the World: A Poem that Resonates with the Modern World

Robinson Jeffers, an American poet, wrote the poem "End of the World" in 1940, during the height of World War II. The poem is a powerful and prophetic piece that speaks to the human condition and the potential for destruction that lies within us. The poem is a warning about the dangers of war and the consequences of our actions. It is a call to action for humanity to change its ways before it is too late.

The poem is divided into three sections, each with its own distinct message. The first section sets the scene and describes the end of the world. Jeffers paints a vivid picture of the apocalypse, with the sun turning black, the stars falling from the sky, and the oceans boiling. He describes the end of all life on earth, with the last human being dying alone on a desolate planet. The imagery is powerful and haunting, and it leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

The second section of the poem is a reflection on the causes of the end of the world. Jeffers suggests that it is the result of human greed and arrogance. He writes, "We had intended / That only the best should rule the world. / But evil fate / Has lain in wait for us." Jeffers is suggesting that our desire for power and control has led us down a path of destruction. He is warning us that if we do not change our ways, we will face the same fate as the people in his poem.

The third section of the poem is a call to action. Jeffers is urging us to change our ways before it is too late. He writes, "We must uncenter our minds from ourselves; / We must unhumanize our views a little, and become confident / As the rock and ocean that we were made from." Jeffers is suggesting that we need to shift our focus away from ourselves and towards the natural world. We need to recognize that we are a part of something much larger than ourselves and that we have a responsibility to protect it.

The poem is a powerful reminder of the potential for destruction that lies within us. It is a warning that we need to take seriously. The world is facing many challenges today, from climate change to political instability. We need to recognize that our actions have consequences and that we have a responsibility to protect the planet and all its inhabitants.

The poem also speaks to the power of poetry and art to inspire change. Jeffers wrote this poem during a time of great turmoil and uncertainty. He was able to capture the fears and anxieties of his time and turn them into a powerful message that still resonates today. His words have the power to inspire us to take action and to make a difference in the world.

In conclusion, "End of the World" is a powerful and prophetic poem that speaks to the human condition and the potential for destruction that lies within us. It is a warning about the dangers of war and the consequences of our actions. It is a call to action for humanity to change its ways before it is too late. The poem is a reminder that we are a part of something much larger than ourselves and that we have a responsibility to protect it. It is a testament to the power of poetry and art to inspire change and to make a difference in the world.

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