Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Robert Frost, one of the most celebrated American poets of the 20th century, often explored themes related to nature, individualism, and the complexities of life. In "The Birds Do Thus," Frost uses a succinct and contemplative approach to convey the narrator's thoughts on choice, time, and the solace of sleep.

Theme Analysis:

Nature as a Mirror to Human Behavior: Frost often uses natural imagery to reflect human emotions and behaviors. Here, the birds' behavior is paralleled with the speaker's own decision to sleep away a day. The birds sing in the evening, providing solace and perhaps signaling an end to the day, which mirrors the narrator's own retreat into sleep.

Value of Time: The poem speaks to the idea of selectively cherishing moments in life. The speaker's willingness to "give away" a day for the sake of a special future moment underscores the notion that not all moments are of equal value.

Choice and Autonomy: The poem emphasizes the power of individual choice. The narrator chooses sleep as a form of escapism, preferring to be oblivious to the "unhappy days" rather than confront them.

The Solace of Sleep: Sleep is portrayed as a refuge-a way to skip the unpleasant moments and await the joyous ones. It becomes a metaphor for evading the struggles of life.

Poetic Devices and Structure:

Simplicity and Brevity: The poem's concise format is reflective of the fleeting nature of time, emphasizing how quickly moments pass.

Metaphor: The birds' evening song acts as a metaphor for concluding or setting aside a day.

Contrast: Frost juxtaposes the ideas of choosing to "give away" a day with the notion that "Life's not so short." This offers a unique perspective on how individuals might perceive and value time differently.

End Rhyme: The poem follows a traditional AABB rhyme scheme, which lends a rhythmic flow and a sense of closure to each stanza.

Conclusion: "The Birds Do Thus" is a reflective poem that delves into the concept of choice, the fleeting nature of time, and the solace that can be found in sleep. Through simple imagery and a concise format, Frost conveys the idea that individuals have the autonomy to decide which moments are worth experiencing and which can be set aside. The poem serves as a poignant reminder of the power individuals hold in choosing how to experience life's ups and downs.