Welcome and Farewell Poem Analysis
"Welcome and Farewell" (German: "Willkommen und Abschied") is a poem written by the famous German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe in 1771. The poem, which is written in the first person, narrates the poet's journey to see his beloved and the subsequent parting from her. The poem consists of four stanzas, each with eight lines, and is an example of Goethe's early Sturm und Drang (Storm and Stress) period, characterized by strong emotions, personal experiences, and a focus on individualism.
In the first stanza, the poet describes his anticipation and eagerness to see his beloved, despite the darkness and the stormy weather. The tone is passionate, and the poet portrays his determination to be with his lover regardless of the obstacles he encounters. The vivid description of the stormy night conveys the intensity of the poet's emotions and his longing to be with his lover.
The second stanza brings the poet to his lover's side, and he describes her in glowing terms, portraying her as a source of light and warmth. The imagery of her eyes and their powerful effect on him reflects the deep connection between the two lovers. The poet's emotions are heightened, and the meeting is described as a joyous and exhilarating experience.
The third stanza marks a change in tone, as the poet must leave his beloved. The emotional intensity of their parting is palpable, and the poet emphasizes the pain and sorrow of their separation. He describes their farewell in terms of physical sensations, such as the coldness he feels when he leaves her warmth and the weight of her tears on his cheek.
In the final stanza, the poet reflects on the entire experience, expressing a sense of melancholy and loss. He acknowledges that the brief time spent with his beloved was worth the challenges of the journey and the pain of parting, and he will cherish the memory of their time together.
In summary, "Welcome and Farewell" is a passionate and emotionally charged poem that explores themes of love, longing, and the pain of separation. The vivid imagery and the poet's personal experience create a relatable and moving narrative that has resonated with readers for centuries.