As Due By Many Titles Poem Analysis
Unveiling the Layers of George Herbert's "As Due by Many Titles"Introduction
George Herbert's poem "As Due by Many Titles" is a powerful exploration of the relationship between humanity and divinity. In this poem, the speaker grapples with the idea of unworthiness in the face of God's love and perfection. By analyzing the poem's structure, language, and imagery, we can uncover the rich layers of meaning that Herbert weaves into this profound work.
Structure and Form
"As Due by Many Titles" is composed of seven quatrains, each with an ABAB rhyme scheme. This form is reminiscent of a traditional hymn or devotional poem, creating a sense of reverence and solemnity. The poem's structure also reflects the theme of submission, as the speaker repeatedly addresses God in a humble manner.
Language and Imagery
Herbert's use of language and imagery in "As Due by Many Titles" is particularly striking. The poem is replete with references to the Bible, as well as classical mythology, reinforcing the idea of God's omnipresence and transcendence. For example, the speaker refers to God as "My Lord, my Life, my Love, my Light, my King" (line 1), employing alliteration and repetition to emphasize the multifaceted nature of the divine.
The poem also features vivid, evocative images that capture the speaker's struggle with feelings of unworthiness. For instance, the speaker describes themselves as "an empty pitcher" (line 13), suggesting a void that only God's love can fill. Additionally, the reference to "my seared conscience" (line 14) underscores the speaker's awareness of their own sin and the need for redemption.
Themes and Interpretation
One of the central themes of "As Due by Many Titles" is the idea of unworthiness in the face of divine perfection. The speaker grapples with feelings of inadequacy, as they acknowledge their own sins and shortcomings. This sense of unworthiness is further emphasized by the poem's numerous biblical allusions, which serve as a reminder of the high moral standards set forth in religious texts.
Another key theme in the poem is the transformative power of God's love. Despite the speaker's feelings of unworthiness, they ultimately find solace and redemption in the divine. This is evident in lines such as "My beauty shall be clean and clear" (line 26), which suggests that through God's love, the speaker can attain a state of purity and grace.
Conclusion
In conclusion, George Herbert's "As Due by Many Titles" is a complex and thought-provoking poem that delves into the nature of humanity's relationship with the divine. By examining the poem's structure, language, and imagery, we can gain a deeper understanding of the themes and messages that Herbert conveys in this masterful work. Ultimately, the poem serves as a powerful meditation on the transformative power of God's love, as well as the challenges that humans face in grappling with their own imperfections and shortcomings.