Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Ballad" by W.H. Auden is a haunting and foreboding poem that utilizes the traditional ballad form to tell a story filled with suspense and terror.

Structure

The poem is written in a simple ABCB rhyme scheme, typical of many traditional ballads. Its rhythm and repetition lend it a musical quality, making it both hypnotic and unsettling.

Summary

The poem unfolds as a conversation between two unnamed speakers. One asks questions about the sounds and sights approaching, filled with a growing sense of alarm and dread, while the other initially reassures them, downplaying the threat. As the poem progresses, the reality of the situation becomes more apparent, and the tone of the answers shifts from calm explanations to more ominous and fearful responses.

Themes

War and Violence: The advancing soldiers symbolize the relentless and inescapable nature of violence and conflict. Their approach is inexorable, and their intent becomes increasingly clear as the poem progresses.

Fear and Dread: The poem builds a sense of dread through the repetition of questions and answers. The relentless approach of the soldiers creates a growing sense of terror, culminating in the realization that they are coming for the questioner.

Betrayal and Abandonment: The penultimate stanza reveals a betrayal, as the second speaker admits that they must leave, despite having promised to love the first. This adds a personal and tragic dimension to the poem, deepening its emotional impact.

Ambiguity and Interpretation: The poem leaves many questions unanswered. Who are the soldiers? Why are they coming? What have the speakers done, if anything, to warrant this approach? The ambiguity adds to the poem's power, allowing for various interpretations and resonances.

Imagery

Auden's imagery in this poem is vivid and evocative, from the "scarlet soldiers" to the "flashing" of the sun on their weapons to the heavy sound of their boots. These images create a palpable sense of presence and threat.

Tone and Mood

The tone is foreboding, and the mood is one of suspense and terror. Auden masterfully builds tension through the dialogue and the repetition of questions, leading to a chilling conclusion.

Conclusion

"Ballad" is a masterful poem that showcases Auden's ability to use traditional forms to create something fresh and deeply unsettling. The use of dialogue, repetition, and vivid imagery, combined with the poem's ambiguous and open-ended nature, makes it a compelling and thought-provoking piece. It can be interpreted as a commentary on the senseless nature of violence, the fragility of love and trust, or even a more specific political statement. Regardless of the interpretation, the poem's power to evoke fear and despair remains undiminished.

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...