'Flesh and the Spirit, The' by Anne Bradstreet
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In secret place where once I stood
Close by the Banks of Lacrim flood,
I heard two sisters reason on
Things that are past and things to come.
One Flesh was call'd, who had her eye
On worldly wealth and vanity;
The other Spirit, who did rear
Her thoughts unto a higher sphere.
"Sister," quoth Flesh, "what liv'st thou on
Nothing but Meditation?
Doth Contemplation feed thee so
Regardlessly to let earth go?
Can Speculation satisfy
Notion without Reality?
Dost dream of things beyond the Moon
And dost thou hope to dwell there soon?
Hast treasures there laid up in store
That all in th' world thou count'st but poor?
Art fancy-sick or turn'd a Sot
To catch at shadows which are not?
Come, come. I'll show unto thy sense,
Industry hath its recompence.
What canst desire, but thou maist see
True substance in variety?
Dost honour like? Acquire the same,
As some to their immortal fame;
And trophies to thy name erect
Which wearing time shall ne'er deject.
For riches dost thou long full sore?
Behold enough of precious store.
Earth hath more silver, pearls, and gold
Than eyes can see or hands can hold.
Affects thou pleasure? Take thy fill.
Earth hath enough of what you will.
Then let not go what thou maist find
For things unknown only in mind."
Editor 1 Interpretation
Literary Criticism and Interpretation of Anne Bradstreet's "Poetry, Flesh and the Spirit"
Introduction
Anne Bradstreet is one of the most celebrated poets of the 17th century in America. Her poetry is known for its religious and philosophical themes, and her unique perspectives on life and spirituality. In "Poetry, Flesh and the Spirit," Bradstreet explores the duality of human nature and the eternal struggle between the flesh and the spirit. This poem is considered one of her most important works, and it is still studied and analyzed by scholars and readers today.
Analysis of "Poetry, Flesh and the Spirit"
The poem "Poetry, Flesh and the Spirit" is divided into three parts, each one exploring a different aspect of the human experience. In the first part, Bradstreet describes the nature of poetry and how it relates to the flesh. She personifies poetry as a living being, with a physical body that is subject to the same weaknesses and limitations as humans. She says, "I am obnoxious to each carping tongue / Who says my hand a needle better fits." Here, Bradstreet acknowledges the criticism she receives as a female poet in a male-dominated society. She also implies that her poetry is seen as inferior to other forms of creative expression, such as sewing.
In the second part of the poem, Bradstreet contrasts the flesh with the spirit. She personifies the spirit as a divine being that is free from the limitations of the physical world. She says, "I am a spirit too, and from above / Must make my flight to heaven; wherefore then / Should I not gaze on angels' wings and face / Their burning glories, with an eye as keen / As angels' are, but with a mortal sight?" Here, Bradstreet is expressing her belief in the existence of a higher power and the importance of spiritual enlightenment. She suggests that the spirit is more valuable than the flesh, and that humans should strive to transcend their physical limitations in order to achieve true happiness and fulfillment.
In the third part of the poem, Bradstreet concludes by declaring her allegiance to the spirit. She says, "Then leave thy beggarly wares, and follow me." Here, she is speaking directly to the flesh, urging it to abandon its earthly desires and follow the path of the spirit. She emphasizes the importance of spiritual enlightenment and the need to reject materialism and worldly pleasures.
Interpretation of "Poetry, Flesh and the Spirit"
"Poetry, Flesh and the Spirit" is a deeply philosophical poem that explores the complex relationship between human nature and spirituality. Bradstreet uses vivid imagery and personification to convey her ideas and beliefs, and she draws upon her own experiences as a woman and a poet to create a powerful and thought-provoking poem.
One of the key themes in the poem is the duality of human nature. Bradstreet portrays the flesh and the spirit as two opposing forces that are constantly battling for control. This conflict is reflected in the tension between poetry and other creative expressions, as well as the struggle for spiritual enlightenment. Bradstreet suggests that the path to spiritual enlightenment requires a rejection of materialism and a commitment to transcending the limitations of the physical world.
Another important theme in the poem is the role of women in society. Bradstreet was one of the first female poets in America, and her work often reflects her experiences as a woman in a male-dominated society. In "Poetry, Flesh and the Spirit," Bradstreet acknowledges the criticism she receives as a female poet, but she also asserts her own worth and value as a creative individual. She challenges the notion that women are inferior to men and suggests that their contributions to society are just as important.
Overall, "Poetry, Flesh and the Spirit" is a powerful and thought-provoking poem that explores some of the most fundamental questions of human existence. Bradstreet's use of vivid imagery and personification brings the poem to life, and her insights into spirituality and human nature are still relevant today. This poem serves as a testament to Bradstreet's talent as a poet and her unique perspective on the world.
Conclusion
"Poetry, Flesh and the Spirit" is a poem that continues to captivate readers and scholars today. Anne Bradstreet's exploration of the duality of human nature and the conflict between the physical and spiritual realms is both powerful and thought-provoking. Her use of vivid imagery and personification brings the poem to life, and her insights into spirituality and the role of women in society are still relevant today. This poem stands as a testament to Bradstreet's talent as a poet and her unique perspective on the world.
Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation
Anne Bradstreet’s poem “Flesh and the Spirit” is a classic work of literature that explores the dichotomy between the physical and spiritual realms. Written in the 17th century, Bradstreet’s poem is a reflection of the Puritan beliefs that dominated the time period. In this 2000-word analysis, we will delve into the themes, structure, and literary devices used in the poem to understand its significance.
Themes
The central theme of “Flesh and the Spirit” is the conflict between the physical and spiritual realms. Bradstreet uses the two characters, Flesh and Spirit, to represent these opposing forces. Flesh represents the physical world, with its pleasures and temptations, while Spirit represents the spiritual world, with its virtues and rewards. The poem explores the tension between these two realms and the struggle to reconcile them.
Another theme that emerges in the poem is the idea of salvation. Bradstreet’s Puritan beliefs are evident in her emphasis on the importance of salvation. The poem suggests that salvation can only be achieved through the spirit, not through the flesh. This idea is reinforced through the contrast between the two characters. Flesh is depicted as sinful and corrupt, while Spirit is portrayed as pure and virtuous.
Structure
“Flesh and the Spirit” is structured as a dialogue between two characters, Flesh and Spirit. The poem is divided into three parts, each of which represents a different stage in the conversation between the two characters.
In the first part, Flesh tries to persuade Spirit to abandon her spiritual pursuits and indulge in the pleasures of the flesh. Flesh argues that life is short and that one should enjoy it while they can. Spirit responds by reminding Flesh that earthly pleasures are fleeting and that true happiness can only be found in the spiritual realm.
In the second part, Spirit tries to convince Flesh of the importance of salvation. Spirit argues that the flesh is corrupt and that salvation can only be achieved through the spirit. Flesh responds by questioning the existence of the spiritual realm and the idea of salvation.
In the final part, Spirit triumphs over Flesh. Spirit reminds Flesh that the pleasures of the flesh are temporary and that true happiness can only be found in the spiritual realm. Flesh is left defeated and Spirit emerges victorious.
Literary Devices
Bradstreet uses a variety of literary devices to convey her message in “Flesh and the Spirit”. One of the most prominent devices is personification. Bradstreet personifies the two opposing forces, Flesh and Spirit, to create a vivid contrast between the physical and spiritual realms. This contrast is further emphasized through the use of imagery. Bradstreet uses vivid imagery to describe the pleasures of the flesh and the rewards of the spirit.
Another literary device used in the poem is metaphor. Bradstreet uses metaphor to describe the spiritual realm as a “celestial paradise” and the flesh as a “mortal coil”. These metaphors help to reinforce the idea that true happiness can only be found in the spiritual realm.
Bradstreet also uses allusion in the poem. She alludes to biblical stories and characters to reinforce her message. For example, she alludes to the story of Adam and Eve to illustrate the temptation of the flesh and the importance of resisting it.
Significance
“Flesh and the Spirit” is a significant work of literature for several reasons. Firstly, it is a reflection of the Puritan beliefs that dominated the 17th century. The poem explores the tension between the physical and spiritual realms, a central theme in Puritan theology.
Secondly, the poem is significant for its use of literary devices. Bradstreet’s use of personification, imagery, metaphor, and allusion creates a vivid contrast between the physical and spiritual realms and reinforces the poem’s central message.
Finally, “Flesh and the Spirit” is significant for its timeless message. The poem’s message about the importance of resisting the temptations of the flesh and pursuing spiritual salvation is still relevant today. The poem serves as a reminder that true happiness can only be found in the pursuit of spiritual fulfillment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Anne Bradstreet’s poem “Flesh and the Spirit” is a classic work of literature that explores the dichotomy between the physical and spiritual realms. The poem’s central theme, structure, and literary devices all contribute to its significance. The poem serves as a reminder of the importance of pursuing spiritual fulfillment and resisting the temptations of the flesh.
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