Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Aaron" is a poem by George Herbert that explores the biblical figure of Aaron, who was the brother of Moses and the first high priest of Israel. The poem was first published in Herbert's collection of poems, The Temple, in 1633.

The poem consists of three stanzas, each with six lines, following an ABABCC rhyme scheme. This form creates a sense of balance and order, reflecting the poem's focus on the importance of Aaron's role as a mediator between God and the people of Israel.

The content of the poem focuses on the speaker's admiration for Aaron's ability to serve as a mediator between God and the people. The poem suggests that Aaron's role as high priest was essential in allowing the people to connect with God and receive his blessings. The poem also explores the idea of sacrifice, emphasizing the importance of humility and devotion in the pursuit of spiritual fulfillment.

The poem's use of metaphor is particularly noteworthy, with the image of a "censer" reflecting the idea of a vessel that is used to carry the smoke of incense as an offering to God. The poem also uses the metaphor of "sweet" and "bitter" to reflect the idea that sacrifice requires both humility and self-denial.

Overall, "Aaron" is a powerful and insightful poem that explores the biblical figure of Aaron and his role as a mediator between God and the people. The poem's use of metaphor, form, and language creates a sense of depth and meaning that has resonated with readers for centuries. The poem's message of the importance of humility, sacrifice, and devotion in the pursuit of spiritual fulfillment has a universal appeal that has made it a lasting testament to the enduring power of poetry to explore the human experience.