Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"An Arundel Tomb" by Philip Larkin,  first published in 1956,describes a tomb that depicts a man and a woman holding hands. The couple is depicted as if they were alive, not as if they are dead. The poet observes that they appear to be "praising" each other, and that this is an unusual sight. He also notes that the figures on the tomb have been there for centuries, and that the man and woman are probably long forgotten. However, the poet suggests that the tomb serves as a reminder of the couple's love, and that it still has the power to move us.

Poetic Elements:

Theme: The central theme of the poem is the power of love and its ability to transcend time and death.

Imagery: The poem contains vivid imagery, such as the image of the couple holding hands on the tomb, and the description of their "smiling" faces.

Tone: The tone of the poem is contemplative and reflective, as the speaker considers the meaning and significance of the tomb.

Diction: The language used in the poem is simple and direct, with few complex words or phrases. This helps to convey the immediacy and intimacy of the speaker's message.

Figurative language: The poem contains several examples of figurative language, such as the use of metaphor in "What will survive of us is love" to describe the enduring power of the couple's love.

Symbolism: The tomb itself is a powerful symbol of the couple's love and enduring legacy.

Structure: The poem is written in free verse, without a consistent rhyme or meter. However, it is divided into six stanzas, each exploring a different aspect of the tomb and the couple it depicts.

Sound: The poem has a musical quality, with the use of repetition and rhythm creating a sense of harmony and balance.

Point of view: The poem is written from the perspective of the speaker, who is reflecting on the meaning of the tomb and the couple it depicts.

Form: The poem is written in six stanzas, each with a varying number of lines. The poem does not follow a consistent rhyme scheme, but there are occasional instances of half-rhyme, such as "love" and "grave".

In summary, "An Arundel Tomb" is a powerful and beautiful poem that explores the enduring power of love and its ability to transcend time and death. Through its use of language, imagery, and symbolism, the poem captures the essence of the couple on the tomb and their lasting legacy. The lack of a consistent rhyme scheme in the poem reflects the idea that true love is not bound by rules or conventions, but rather exists in its own unique and powerful way.

*NOTE: Arundel, a town in West Sussex, England, is known for its medieval castle.

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