Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Robert Frost's "The Trial by Existence" is a profound meditation on the themes of valor, choice, and the human condition. Through vivid imagery and philosophical reflections, Frost explores the nature of existence and the trials faced by souls as they transition from an idealized, heavenly state to the harsh realities of earthly life.

The poem begins with a striking assertion: "Even the bravest that are slain / Shall not dissemble their surprise / On waking to find valor reign, / Even as on earth, in paradise." These lines suggest that the courageous souls who have died in battle will be surprised to discover that bravery and valor continue to hold significance in the afterlife, just as they did on earth. This continuation of valor underscores a universal truth about the importance of courage, whether in mortal life or in the celestial realms.

Frost contrasts the expectations of the afterlife with its reality: "And where they sought without the sword / Wide fields of asphodel fore'er, / To find that the utmost reward / Of daring should be still to dare." The souls, expecting eternal peace and rest in the fields of asphodel, instead find that their ultimate reward is the opportunity to continue demonstrating courage. This revelation speaks to the enduring nature of bravery and the ongoing challenges that even the afterlife presents.

The description of heaven is both serene and dynamic: "The light of heaven falls whole and white / And is not shattered into dyes, / The light for ever is morning light; / The hills are verdured pasture-wise." Frost paints a picture of an eternal morning, with pure, unbroken light and verdant pastures. This idyllic setting is populated by angelic hosts who "seek with laughter what to brave," indicating that even in paradise, there is a quest for challenges and adventures.

Frost introduces the concept of the "trial by existence," where souls are gathered for birth and must choose to descend to earth: "The trial by existence named, / The obscuration upon earth." This trial represents the souls' willingness to undergo the hardships of earthly life. The "slant spirits trooping by / In streams and cross- and counter-streams" symbolize the multitude of souls making their choice, drawn by the "sweet cry" that hints at the dreams and potential of earthly existence.

The poem delves into the motivations of these souls, who willingly give up paradise for the sake of a higher purpose: "And the more loitering are turned / To view once more the sacrifice / Of those who for some good discerned / Will gladly give up paradise." These lines highlight the nobility of those who choose to face earthly struggles for the sake of a greater good, suggesting that such sacrifices are valued and honored.

Frost depicts the process by which God presents the realities of earthly life to the souls: "And none are taken but who will, / Having first heard the life read out / That opens earthward, good and ill." God’s presentation is thorough and honest, "setting the thing that is supreme" without diminishing the challenges. This preparation ensures that the souls make an informed and willing choice.

The poem emphasizes the purity and heroism of the souls who accept the challenge: "Some spirit to stand simply forth, / Heroic in its nakedness, / Against the uttermost of earth." The valor of these souls is celebrated, and their decision to embrace earthly existence is met with awe and acclaim.

In the final stanzas, Frost reflects on the nature of memory and choice: "But the pure fate to which you go / Admits no memory of choice, / Or the woe were not earthly woe / To which you give the assenting voice." This suggests that part of the trial of existence is to live without the clear memory of having chosen this life, thereby fully experiencing the struggles and pains of earthly existence.

The poem concludes with a powerful image: "And God has taken a flower of gold / And broken it, and used therefrom / The mystic link to bind and hold / Spirit to matter till death come." This symbolizes the divine act of binding spirit to the physical world, creating a connection that persists until death.

Frost's "The Trial by Existence" is a rich and layered exploration of the human experience, valor, and the profound choices that shape our lives. Through his evocative language and deep philosophical insights, Frost invites readers to consider the significance of courage and the trials we face in the journey of existence.

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