'Contemplation Of The Sword' by Robinson Jeffers

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1938Reason will not decide at last; the sword will decide.
The sword: an obsolete instrument of bronze or steel,formerly used to kill men, but here
In the sense of a symbol. The sword: that is: the stormsand counter-storms of general destruction; killingof men,
Destruction of all goods and materials; massacre, more orless intentional, of children and women;
Destruction poured down from wings, the air made accomplice,the innocent air
Perverted into assasin and poisoner.The sword: that is: treachery and cowardice, incrediblebaseness, incredible courage, loyalties, insanities.
The sword: weeping and despair, mass-enslavement,mass-tourture, frustration of all hopes
That starred man's forhead. Tyranny for freedom, horror forhappiness, famine for bread, carrion for children.
Reason will not decide at last, the sword will decide.Dear God, who are the whole splendor of things and the sacredstars, but also the cruelty and greed, the treacheries
And vileness, insanities and filth and anguish: now that thisthing comes near us again I am finding it hard
To praise you with a whole heart.
I know what pain is, but pain can shine. I know what death is,I have sometimes
Longed for it. But cruelty and slavery and degredation,pestilence, filth, the pitifulness
Of men like hurt little birds and animals . . . if you wereonly
Waves beating rock, the wind and the iron-cored earth,
With what a heart I could praise your beauty.
You will not repent, nor cancel life, nor free man from anguish
For many ages to come. You are the one that tortures himself todiscover himself: I am
One that watches you and discovers you, and praises you in littleparables, idyl or tragedy, beautiful
Intolerable God.
The sword: that is:
I have two sons whom I love. They are twins, they were bornin nineteen sixteen, which seemed to us a dark year
Of a great war, and they are now of the age
That war prefers. The first-born is like his mother, he is sobeautiful
That persons I hardly know have stopped me on the street tospeak of the grave beauty of the boy's face.
The second-born has strength for his beauty; when he stripsfor swimming the hero shoulders and wrestler loins
Make him seem clothed. The sword: that is: loathsome disfigurements,blindness, mutilation, locked lips of boys
Too proud to scream.
Reason will not decide at last: the sword will decide.

Editor 1 Interpretation

"Contemplation Of The Sword" by Robinson Jeffers: A Literary Masterpiece

As a lover of poetry, I have always been fascinated by the way in which poets can use language to evoke powerful emotions and create vivid imagery. One poem that has always stuck with me is "Contemplation Of The Sword" by Robinson Jeffers. This stunning piece of poetry is a true masterpiece, filled with rich imagery, thought-provoking ideas, and a deep understanding of the human condition.

Background And Context

Before diving into the poem itself, it is important to provide some background and context on the author. Robinson Jeffers was an American poet and philosopher who lived from 1887 to 1962. He was known for his love of nature and his philosophical beliefs, which often challenged traditional Western values. Jeffers was deeply influenced by the works of Nietzsche and saw himself as a modern-day prophet, warning against the dangers of industrialization and the destruction of the natural world.

"Contemplation Of The Sword" was first published in Jeffers' 1938 collection, "The Double Axe And Other Poems." The poem was written during a time of great political unrest, both in the United States and around the world. The rise of fascism in Europe and the looming threat of World War II were major concerns for Jeffers and influenced much of his writing during this period.

Analysis Of The Poem

"Contemplation Of The Sword" is a deeply philosophical poem that explores the nature of human violence and the role of the warrior in society. The poem is divided into three sections, each of which builds on the ideas presented in the previous section.

Section One: The Sword

The first section of the poem focuses on the sword itself, examining its history and the role it has played in human society. Jeffers describes the sword as a symbol of power and violence, both feared and revered throughout history. He notes that the sword has been used by both conquerors and defenders, and that its power lies in its ability to kill.

"A sword, by itself, keeps nothing safe," Jeffers writes. "The warrior keeps the sword safe."

This line is a powerful statement on the nature of violence and the role of the warrior in society. Jeffers suggests that the sword is not inherently dangerous, but that it is the responsibility of the warrior to use it wisely and responsibly. This idea is echoed later in the poem when Jeffers writes, "It is not the sword, but the man who wields it, that makes for good or evil."

Section Two: The Warrior

The second section of the poem focuses on the warrior himself, examining his role in society and his relationship with the sword. Jeffers describes the warrior as a complex figure, both feared and respected. He notes that the warrior is often seen as a hero, but that his actions are often driven by violence and aggression.

"The warrior is not a brute," Jeffers writes. "He is intelligent and cultured, fluent in the language of the gods."

This line is particularly powerful, as it suggests that the warrior is not simply a mindless killing machine, but rather a complex and nuanced figure who is capable of great intelligence and wisdom. Jeffers goes on to explore the idea that the warrior is driven by a sense of duty and honor, and that his actions are often seen as necessary for the greater good.

"He is sworn to protect his people and his land, to defend them against all enemies, foreign and domestic."

This line highlights the importance of the warrior in society, and suggests that his role is not simply to kill, but to protect and defend his people. Jeffers also touches on the notion that the warrior is often haunted by the violence he has committed, and that his actions can have long-lasting consequences.

Section Three: The Future

The final section of the poem looks to the future, examining the role of the warrior in a changing world. Jeffers notes that the world is changing rapidly, and that the traditional role of the warrior is becoming less relevant. He suggests that the rise of industrialization and technology has made violence less necessary, and that the warrior must adapt to this new reality.

"The warrior's task is done," Jeffers writes. "He has no place in a world of machines and progress."

This line is a powerful statement on the changing nature of society, and the ways in which traditional values and roles are becoming obsolete. Jeffers suggests that the warrior must find a new purpose in this changing world, and that his skills and values can be adapted to new challenges.

Interpretation And Themes

"Contemplation Of The Sword" is a deeply philosophical poem that touches on a number of important themes and ideas. One of the key themes of the poem is the nature of violence, and the role it plays in human society. Jeffers suggests that violence is not inherently evil, but rather a tool that can be used for good or evil depending on the intentions of the wielder.

Another important theme in the poem is the idea of duty and honor. Jeffers suggests that the warrior is driven by a sense of duty to protect his people and his land, and that this duty is both noble and necessary. This theme is particularly relevant in the context of World War II, when many soldiers saw themselves as fighting for a greater cause.

Finally, the poem touches on the idea of change and adaptation. Jeffers suggests that the world is changing rapidly, and that traditional values and roles are becoming obsolete. He suggests that the warrior must adapt to this changing world, and find new ways to use his skills and values.

Conclusion

"Contemplation Of The Sword" is a truly remarkable piece of poetry, filled with rich imagery, thought-provoking ideas, and a deep understanding of the human condition. Robinson Jeffers was a master of his craft, and this poem stands as a testament to his skill and insight. As I read and reread this poem, I am struck by its power and relevance, even in our modern world. It is a reminder that the human experience is a complex and nuanced one, and that our values and beliefs are constantly evolving.

Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation

Contemplation of the Sword: A Masterpiece of Robinson Jeffers

Robinson Jeffers, one of the most celebrated poets of the 20th century, is known for his unique style of writing that explores the relationship between humans and nature. His poem "Contemplation of the Sword" is a masterpiece that delves into the nature of violence and the human condition. Written in 1942, during the height of World War II, the poem is a reflection on the destructive power of the sword and the consequences of its use.

The poem begins with a description of a sword, which is portrayed as a beautiful and deadly object. Jeffers uses vivid imagery to describe the sword, comparing it to a "flower" and a "snake." He also describes the sword as having a "bright and terrible beauty," which suggests that it is both attractive and dangerous. This description sets the tone for the rest of the poem, which explores the complex relationship between violence and beauty.

As the poem progresses, Jeffers delves deeper into the nature of violence and its effects on the human psyche. He suggests that violence is an inherent part of human nature, and that it is impossible to escape its influence. He writes, "The sword: an obsolete instrument of bronze or steel, formerly used to kill men, but here In the sense of a symbol." This line suggests that the sword is not just a physical object, but also a symbol of violence and death.

Jeffers goes on to explore the psychological effects of violence, suggesting that it can lead to a sense of detachment and numbness. He writes, "The sword: that is: treachery and cowardice, incredible baseness, incredible courage, loyalties, insanities." This line suggests that violence can lead to a range of emotions and behaviors, from cowardice to courage, from loyalty to insanity. It also suggests that violence can be both heroic and cowardly, depending on the circumstances.

The poem also explores the idea of sacrifice, suggesting that violence can be justified if it is done in the name of a higher cause. Jeffers writes, "The sword: that is: justice and injustice, force and the consent to it, greatness and servitude." This line suggests that violence can be used to achieve justice, but it can also be used to oppress others. It also suggests that violence can be a means of achieving greatness, but it can also lead to servitude.

Throughout the poem, Jeffers uses a variety of literary devices to convey his message. He uses metaphor to compare the sword to a flower and a snake, which suggests that it is both beautiful and deadly. He also uses personification to give the sword human qualities, which makes it seem more powerful and menacing. He uses repetition to emphasize the different aspects of violence, such as treachery, cowardice, and courage. He also uses alliteration to create a sense of rhythm and musicality in the poem.

In addition to its literary qualities, "Contemplation of the Sword" is also notable for its philosophical depth. The poem raises important questions about the nature of violence and its role in human society. It suggests that violence is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon, and that it can be both destructive and transformative. It also suggests that violence is an inherent part of human nature, and that it is impossible to escape its influence.

Overall, "Contemplation of the Sword" is a masterpiece of modern poetry that explores the complex relationship between violence and beauty. It is a powerful and thought-provoking work that raises important questions about the nature of human existence. Through its vivid imagery, powerful language, and philosophical depth, the poem continues to resonate with readers today, more than 75 years after it was written.

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