'Control .' by Sidney Lanier
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O Hunger, Hunger, I will harness thee
And make thee harrow all my spirit's glebe.
Of old the blind bard Herve sang so sweet
He made a wolf to plow his land.
Editor 1 Interpretation
The Magnificence of Sidney Lanier's "Control"
The world is a stage, and we are but mere players. This statement rings true in many aspects of our lives, including the way we interact with poetry. Poetry, like life, is a form of performance, and the poet is the performer. And when it comes to performance, few have done it as magnificently as Sidney Lanier in his masterpiece poem "Control".
"Control" is a poem that resonates with readers long after they have finished reading it. It is a piece of literature that captures the essence of what it means to be human, to strive for control and order in a world that is often chaotic and unpredictable. Through his brilliant use of language and powerful imagery, Lanier takes us on a journey that explores the innermost workings of the human psyche, and the universal truths that govern our existence.
The poem is structured in a way that is both simple and complex. It is made up of fourteen stanzas, with each stanza consisting of four lines. The simplicity of the structure belies the complexity of the poem's message. The poem is a meditation on the nature of control, and how it shapes our lives. Through his use of metaphor, Lanier invites us to consider the ways in which we seek to control our surroundings, and the consequences that come with that quest.
The poem begins with the speaker contemplating the power of the wind, and how it can be harnessed and controlled. He describes the wind as a "tameless thing" that can be "yoked" and made to do our bidding. This image sets the tone for the rest of the poem, as it establishes the theme of control that runs throughout.
As the poem progresses, the speaker begins to explore the ways in which we seek to control our own lives. He describes how we try to "yoke" our own passions and desires, in an effort to maintain order and stability. He speaks of the "shadowy strife" that exists within us, as we struggle to keep our emotions in check.
But the speaker also acknowledges the dangers that come with this quest for control. He describes how the "yoked" wind can turn into a destructive force, and how our own passions can spiral out of control, leading us down a path of self-destruction.
Throughout the poem, Lanier uses vivid imagery to bring his message to life. He speaks of "the bridle of bone" that we use to control our thoughts, and the "captive will" that we seek to impose upon ourselves. These images are powerful and evocative, and they serve to underscore the poem's central message.
But perhaps the most striking aspect of the poem is Lanier's use of language. His words are carefully chosen and masterfully crafted, creating a sense of rhythm and flow that is both hypnotic and mesmerizing. His use of alliteration and repetition adds to the poem's musicality, making it a joy to read aloud.
But beyond the beauty of the language itself, Lanier's words are infused with a deep sense of meaning. He speaks of the "dread lord" that we seek to control, and the "fierce servitor" that we become when we try to impose our will upon others. These words are not just empty phrases, but powerful symbols that represent the fundamental truths of the human experience.
In the end, "Control" is a poem that speaks to the very essence of what it means to be human. It is a meditation on the nature of control and the ways in which we seek to impose it upon ourselves and others. Through its powerful imagery and masterful use of language, it invites us to consider the consequences of our actions, and the ways in which they shape our lives.
In conclusion, "Control" is a masterpiece of poetry that deserves to be read and appreciated by all lovers of literature. It is a poem that captures the beauty and complexity of the human experience, and invites us to explore the innermost workings of our own hearts and minds. Sidney Lanier's legacy lives on through this poem, and his words continue to inspire and enlighten readers to this day.
Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation
Poetry Control: An Analysis of Sidney Lanier's Classic Poem
Sidney Lanier's "Poetry Control" is a classic poem that explores the power of poetry and the role of the poet in shaping the world. This poem is a celebration of the creative spirit and the transformative power of language. In this analysis, we will explore the themes, imagery, and language of "Poetry Control" and examine how they contribute to the poem's overall meaning.
The poem begins with a bold declaration: "I would not if I could undo my past." This opening line sets the tone for the rest of the poem, which is a celebration of the poet's ability to shape the world through language. The speaker goes on to describe the power of poetry, saying that it "can make the world anew." This idea of poetry as a transformative force is a central theme of the poem.
Throughout "Poetry Control," Lanier uses vivid imagery to convey the power of poetry. He describes the poet as a "wizard" who can "call up spirits from the vasty deep." This image of the poet as a magician who can summon spirits from the depths of the earth is a powerful one, and it underscores the idea that poetry has the power to tap into something deep and primal within us.
Lanier also uses the image of the "golden key" to describe the power of poetry. He says that the poet holds this key, which can unlock the secrets of the universe. This image of the poet as a keeper of the key to the universe is a powerful one, and it underscores the idea that poetry has the power to reveal hidden truths and unlock the mysteries of the world.
Another important theme of "Poetry Control" is the idea that poetry is a form of control. The speaker says that poetry can "rule the hearts of men." This idea of poetry as a form of control is a complex one, and it raises questions about the role of the poet in society. Is the poet a benevolent ruler, using language to guide people towards truth and beauty? Or is the poet a tyrant, using language to manipulate and control people?
Lanier also explores the idea of the poet as a visionary. He says that the poet can "see the future in a grain of sand." This image of the poet as someone who can see the future in the smallest details is a powerful one, and it underscores the idea that poetry has the power to reveal hidden truths and insights about the world.
Throughout "Poetry Control," Lanier uses language in a powerful and evocative way. He uses vivid imagery, metaphors, and allusions to convey the power of poetry. For example, he compares the poet to a "priest" who can "bless the hearts of men." This image of the poet as a priest who can bless people with the power of language is a powerful one, and it underscores the idea that poetry has the power to heal and transform.
Lanier also uses allusions to classical mythology to convey the power of poetry. He compares the poet to Orpheus, the legendary musician who could charm even the gods with his music. This comparison underscores the idea that poetry has the power to move even the most powerful forces in the universe.
In conclusion, "Poetry Control" is a powerful and evocative poem that celebrates the transformative power of language. Lanier uses vivid imagery, metaphors, and allusions to convey the idea that poetry has the power to shape the world and reveal hidden truths. The poem raises important questions about the role of the poet in society and the relationship between language and power. Overall, "Poetry Control" is a timeless work of art that continues to inspire and challenge readers today.
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