Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Robert Frost’s poem “La Noche Triste” presents a vivid and dramatic recounting of the historical event known as “La Noche Triste,” or “The Sad Night,” which marked a significant episode during the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire. Through detailed narrative and evocative imagery, Frost captures the turmoil, heroism, and tragedy of this fateful night when Hernán Cortés and his forces attempted to escape from the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlán.

The poem opens with a depiction of the changing scene in the city: “Changed is the scene: the peace / And regal splendor which / Once that city knew are gone, / And war now reigns upon.” This transition from peace to war sets the stage for the ensuing chaos and conflict. The former grandeur of the city is now replaced by the harsh realities of siege and battle.

Frost describes the desperate situation of the Spanish forces: “The Spaniard many days / Besieged within the place, / Where kings did rule of old, / Now pressed by hunger by / The all-relentless foe.” The Spanish, trapped and starving, are under relentless pressure from the Aztec forces. This dire circumstance compels Cortés to plan a retreat under the cover of darkness.

The poem then shifts to the moment of the retreat: “Anon the cry comes down the line, / The portals wide are swung, / A long dark line moves out the gate, / And now the flight’s begun.” The imagery of the Spanish forces moving in a dark line emphasizes the secrecy and urgency of their escape. The tension is palpable as they face the daunting task of fleeing through hostile territory.

As the retreat progresses, Frost introduces key figures and moments of heroism and tragedy. The valiant Leon, standing beside a cannon, is struck down by the Aztec warrior 'tzin: “The valiant Leon waits beside, / Ready with match and sword. / The 'tzin quick springeth to his side, / His mace he hurls on high, / It crasheth through the Spanish steel, / And Leon prone doth lie.” This encounter highlights the fierce resistance of the Aztec warriors and the deadly consequences for the Spanish.

The poem continues to depict the chaotic and desperate flight: “Forward they press in wild despair, / On to the next canal, / Held on all sides by foe and sea, / Like deer within corral.” The Spanish are trapped, surrounded by enemies and natural obstacles, and their frantic attempts to escape result in further casualties and confusion.

Frost also captures the determined leadership of Cortés, despite the overwhelming odds: “Surrounded and alone he sits, / Upon his faithful steed; / Here Alvarado clears a space, / But none might share the deed.” Cortés and his men exhibit remarkable bravery and resolve, but the darkness and the relentless pursuit of the Aztecs make their situation increasingly dire.

The climax of the poem is marked by the confrontation between the Aztec leader and the fleeing Spanish: “A war cry soundeth through the night, / The 'tzin! the 'tzin! is there, / His plume nods wildly o’er the scene, / Oh, Spaniard, now beware!” The intensity of the battle reaches its peak, with both sides locked in a deadly struggle.

As dawn breaks, the poem transitions to a somber reflection on the aftermath: “So, as the sun climbs up the sky, / And shoots his dawning rays, / The foe, as parted by his dart, / Each go their sep’rate ways.” The new day brings a momentary pause to the violence, with both the Spanish and the Aztecs retreating to assess their losses and regroup.

Frost concludes with a meditation on the larger historical significance of the event: “The Montezumas are no more, / Gone is their regal throne, / And freemen live, and rule, and die, / Where they have ruled alone.” The fall of the Aztec Empire and the rise of new rulers are seen as part of the inevitable tide of history. The once-great empire has been dismantled, and new powers emerge in its place.

“La Noche Triste” is a powerful and evocative narrative poem that captures the drama and tragedy of a pivotal moment in history. Through his masterful use of imagery and narrative detail, Frost brings to life the heroism, desperation, and ultimate downfall that characterized this fateful night. The poem serves as a poignant reminder of the relentless march of history and the profound impact of human conflict and ambition.

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