Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Suicide's Note" is a haunting and deeply emotional poem by James Langston Hughes, first published in 1946. The poem is a stark portrayal of the desperation and despair that can lead someone to contemplate suicide, and it is a powerful commentary on the human experience of pain and suffering.

The poem is written in the form of a note left behind by someone who has taken their own life. The speaker begins by saying, "The calm, / Cool face of the river / Asked me for a kiss." This opening suggests a sense of serenity and peace, which is quickly shattered as the speaker reveals their intention to end their own life.

Throughout the poem, the speaker describes their feelings of hopelessness and despair. They say that they "cannot live with [their] soul," suggesting a deep inner turmoil that has driven them to the brink of suicide. They also describe themselves as a "coward," suggesting a sense of shame and guilt over their decision to take their own life.

One of the most powerful aspects of the poem is the way in which the speaker describes the world around them. They speak of the river, the sky, and the trees, all of which seem to be indifferent to the speaker's pain. The river "whispered weeping," but it did not offer any comfort or solace. This sense of isolation and loneliness is a central theme of the poem, and it underscores the deep sense of despair that has driven the speaker to contemplate suicide.

In conclusion, "Suicide's Note" is a poignant and powerful poem that speaks to the human experience of pain and suffering. Through its vivid imagery and haunting language, the poem offers a glimpse into the mind of someone who has reached the point of contemplating suicide. It is a powerful commentary on the desperation and hopelessness that can lead to such a decision, and it is a reminder of the importance of empathy, compassion, and understanding in the face of mental illness and emotional turmoil.

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