Snow-Bound Poem Analysis
A Portrait of New England Life: An Analysis of "Snow-Bound"Introduction
"Snow-Bound" is a narrative poem written by John Greenleaf Whittier, published in 1866. The poem, set in rural New England during the 19th century, recounts the experiences of a family during a snowstorm that leaves them isolated from the outside world. Whittier's poem is a celebration of the warmth and camaraderie of the family hearth, as well as an exploration of the virtues of simplicity and the beauty of the natural world. This analysis will examine the poem's structure, imagery, and themes to better understand its enduring appeal.
Structure and Form
"Snow-Bound" is a long narrative poem, comprising 759 lines. The poem is written in unrhymed iambic tetrameter, which contributes to its conversational tone and the sense of a story being told. The poem's blank verse structure also serves to highlight the natural flow of the narrative and emphasizes the vivid descriptions and images that Whittier employs throughout the work.
Imagery and Symbolism
The poem is rich in imagery and symbolism, drawing heavily from the natural world and the rural New England landscape. The snowstorm that forms the backdrop of the poem serves as a symbol of isolation and enclosure, as well as a force that brings the family closer together. Whittier also uses images of the family hearth, the flickering firelight, and the warm glow of the home to convey a sense of warmth and security amidst the harsh winter conditions.
In addition, Whittier employs symbolism to explore themes of spiritual and moral growth. The melting snow and the emergence of the landscape after the storm can be seen as symbols of renewal and transformation, both for the individual and for the family unit.
Themes
The Importance of Family and Community
One of the central themes of "Snow-Bound" is the importance of family and community in the face of adversity. As the family is isolated by the snowstorm, they are drawn closer together, sharing stories, memories, and the warmth of the hearth. This theme reflects Whittier's broader belief in the value of simple, close-knit communities and the virtues of rural life.
The Beauty of the Natural World
Throughout the poem, Whittier celebrates the beauty of the natural world, even in the midst of the harsh winter conditions. His vivid descriptions of the snow-covered landscape and the changes wrought by the storm serve to highlight the power and majesty of nature, as well as its capacity for renewal and transformation.
Simplicity and Virtue
"Snow-Bound" also explores the themes of simplicity and virtue, as the family's isolation from the outside world allows them to focus on the essential aspects of life, such as love, friendship, and spiritual growth. Whittier's portrayal of the family as content and fulfilled within their simple, rural existence serves as a critique of the materialism and superficiality of the wider society and an affirmation of the value of a more modest, unpretentious way of life.
Conclusion
"Snow-Bound" is a vivid and evocative portrait of 19th-century rural New England life, celebrating the virtues of simplicity, family, and the beauty of the natural world. Through its flowing narrative structure, rich imagery, and exploration of themes such as the importance of community and the power of nature, the poem serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring values of love, connection, and the warmth of the human spirit.