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Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained
THE HOUR BETWEEN DOG AND WOLF: 3. FEEDING THE RABBITS, by LAURE-ANNE BOSSELAAR Poet Analysis Poet's Biography | |||
"The Hour Between Dog and Wolf: 3. Feeding the Rabbits" by Laure-Anne Bosselaar continues the exploration of the relationship between the speaker and Herman, a character introduced in previous segments of the series. This poem delves deeper into the themes of innocence, fear, and the impact of religious dogma on individuals. Through the seemingly simple task of feeding rabbits, Bosselaar crafts a narrative that is rich with emotion and symbolism, revealing the complexities of Herman's character and his protective stance towards the speaker. The poem begins with a tender gesture as Herman wraps his scarf around the speaker's neck, inviting her to join him in feeding the rabbits. This act of kindness and the care they both take in selecting food for the rabbits highlight a moment of shared purpose and connection. The anticipation of a feared yet longed-for moment builds tension, suggesting an underlying awareness of potential danger or revelation. The ringing of the church bells triggers a dramatic response from Herman, who reacts as if the sound were a physical assault. His frantic attempt to silence the bells and protect the speaker from their sound is both poignant and alarming. Herman's behavior—racing through the garden, punching the air, and ultimately covering the speaker's ears with his hands—paints a vivid picture of a man deeply traumatized by the symbolic power of the church bells, which he associates with the "catholic wolves" and their hunger. This sudden shift from a peaceful activity to a scene of panic and protection underscores the poem's exploration of the impact of fear and indoctrination. Herman's reaction to the church bells and his subsequent warning to the speaker reveal his deep-seated mistrust of religious institutions and the control they exert over individuals' lives. His metaphorical reference to the church bells as "howling" that can "chew up your soul" speaks to the potential for religious dogma to consume one's identity and sense of self. The poem concludes with Herman and the speaker sharing a meal of raw herring with bread dipped in beer, a moment of calm and companionship after the earlier chaos. Herman's admonition to the speaker to never listen to church bells serves as both a literal warning and a metaphorical caution against allowing external forces to dictate one's beliefs and actions. "Feeding the Rabbits" is a powerful narrative that explores themes of protection, fear, and resistance against oppressive systems. Through the relationship between Herman and the speaker, Bosselaar highlights the importance of questioning authority and the value of individual thought and freedom. The poem's vivid imagery and emotional depth invite readers to reflect on their own experiences with fear, authority, and the search for truth in a complex world.
| Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...THE SNOWSHOE HARE by MARY OLIVER FEBRUARY: THE BOY BREUGHEL by NORMAN DUBIE UNCLE'S FIRST RABBIT by LORNA DEE CERVANTES BEHOLDING THE HARE by EAMON GRENNAN THE OLD SQUIRE by WILFRID SCAWEN BLUNT SONG OF THE RABBITS OUTSIDE THE TAVERN by ELIZABETH JANE COATSWORTH EPITAPH ON A HARE by WILLIAM COWPER |
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