Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Away!" by Robert Frost is a reflective and somewhat whimsical exploration of the desire for solitude and the journey into the unknown. The poem addresses themes of self-discovery, independence, and the contrast between societal expectations and personal fulfillment. Through a simple yet evocative narrative, Frost captures the spirit of a traveler who seeks meaning beyond the confines of familiar surroundings.

The poem begins with the speaker embarking on a solitary walk through a metaphorical "world desert." This opening line sets the tone for the poem, suggesting a journey into a vast, unexplored, and perhaps desolate landscape. The mention of shoes and stockings not causing hurt indicates a sense of readiness and resilience, as if the speaker is well-prepared for the challenges ahead.

The speaker acknowledges leaving behind good friends in town, who are depicted as engaging in social pleasures like getting "well-wined" and lying down. This contrast between the speaker's solitary path and the communal activities of friends highlights the speaker's deliberate choice to seek solitude and personal exploration rather than partake in conventional social activities.

The poem then addresses potential misconceptions about the speaker's departure. The comparison to Adam and Eve being cast out of Eden suggests that the speaker's journey is not one of exile or punishment but rather a voluntary quest. By urging others to "forget the myth," the speaker emphasizes that there is no conflict or resentment motivating their departure. Instead, the journey is driven by a positive and intrinsic desire for discovery.

The lines "There is no one I / Am put out with / Or put out by" reinforce the idea that the speaker's decision is free from external pressures or grievances. It is a personal choice rooted in a deeper, internal calling. This sense of autonomy and self-direction is further emphasized by the line "Unless I'm wrong / I but obey / The urge of a song: / I'm—bound—away!" Here, the speaker likens their motivation to an irresistible song, suggesting a natural and compelling drive to explore and venture beyond familiar boundaries.

The final stanza introduces the possibility of return, albeit with a caveat. The speaker expresses that they may come back "if dissatisfied / With what I learn / From having died." This line adds a metaphysical dimension to the poem, implying that the journey is not just physical but also a metaphorical death and rebirth. The idea of learning from having "died" suggests profound personal transformation and enlightenment. The speaker's potential return is contingent upon whether the insights gained from this transformative experience meet their expectations.

Through its straightforward language and contemplative tone, "Away!" captures the essence of a journey motivated by a search for deeper understanding and personal growth. Frost's use of rhyme and rhythm enhances the poem's lyrical quality, making it feel like a song itself—a fitting choice given the speaker's reference to the "urge of a song."

In summary, "Away!" by Robert Frost is a poignant meditation on the desire for solitude and the pursuit of self-discovery. The poem explores the motivations behind leaving familiar surroundings and the potential for transformation through solitary exploration. Frost's skillful use of imagery and metaphor invites readers to consider their own journeys and the internal drives that lead them to seek new horizons.

POEM TEXT: https://writersalmanac.publicradio.org/index.php%3Fdate=2014%252F07%252F28.html

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