Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Anthony Hecht's poem "Samuel Sewall" captures the character of Samuel Sewall, a historical figure known for his involvement in the Salem witch trials and later for his public apology. Through the poem, Hecht explores themes of individuality, societal norms, and personal conviction, blending historical context with poetic reflection.

The poem begins by highlighting Sewall's nonconformity: "Samuel Sewall, in a world of wigs, / Flouted opinion in his personal hair." This sets the tone for Sewall's character as someone who values authenticity over societal expectations. In an era when wigs symbolized status and conformity, Sewall's choice to keep his natural hair signifies his rejection of superficiality and his commitment to his principles.

Hecht continues to describe Sewall's demeanor and interactions, particularly focusing on his courtship of Madam Winthrop: "He went forth in the city, or paid court / To Madam Winthrop, whom he much admired, / Most godly, but yet liberal with the port." Here, Sewall is portrayed as a man of genuine affection and respect, admiring Madam Winthrop for her piety and generosity. The town’s admiration for Sewall and Winthrop's relationship over two years highlights Sewall's ability to balance personal integrity with social grace.

However, Madam Winthrop challenges Sewall's nonconformity, urging him to wear a wig: "But yet she bade him suffer a peruke, / 'That One be not distinguished from the All'; / Delivered of herself this stern rebuke / Framed in the resonant language of St. Paul." This moment reveals the tension between individualism and societal pressure. Madam Winthrop’s reference to St. Paul, known for his epistles on church order and conduct, underscores the weight of societal and religious expectations.

Sewall's response to this rebuke is profound and rooted in his faith: "Madam,” he answered her, “I have a Friend / Furnishes me with hair out of His strength, / And He requires only I attend / Unto His charity and to its length.” Sewall's reply emphasizes his reliance on divine providence and his conviction that his natural hair, provided by God, is sufficient. This assertion of faith over fashion reinforces Sewall’s steadfastness and integrity.

The poem concludes with a shift in focus to Sewall's relationship with the Widow Gibbs, illustrating his ongoing pursuit of companionship: "On Monday he walked out with the Widow Gibbs, / A pious lady of charm and notable bust, / Whose heart beat tolerably beneath her ribs." Sewall's proposal to Widow Gibbs reflects his hopeful persistence and his courteous nature, encapsulated in the formal yet heartfelt letter: "Madam, your humble servant, Samuel Sewall."

Hecht's portrayal of Samuel Sewall blends historical detail with poetic elegance, celebrating Sewall's individuality and moral conviction while also acknowledging the complexities of societal norms. Through Sewall's interactions and personal choices, the poem invites reflection on the balance between personal authenticity and social conformity, faith, and love.

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