'The Anniversary' by Robert Service
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"This bunch of violets," he said,
"Is for my daughter dear.
Since that glad morn when she was wed
It is today a year.
She lives atop this flight of stairs--
Please give an arm to me:
If we can take her unawares
How glad she'll be!"
We climbed the stairs; the flight was four,
Our steps were stiff and slow;
But as he reached his daughter's door
His eyes were all aglow.
Joylike he raised his hand to knock,
Then sore distressed was I,
For from the silence like a shock
I heard a cry.
A drunken curse, a sob of woe . . .
His withered face grew grey.
"I think," said he, "we'd better go
And come another day."
And as he went a block with me,
Walking with weary feet,
His violets, I sighed to see,
Bestrewed the street.
Editor 1 Interpretation
The Anniversary by Robert Service: A Celebration of Love and Memories
When it comes to love poems, Robert Service is not often mentioned in the same breath as Shakespeare, Keats, or Dickinson. Yet, his work deserves more attention and appreciation, especially his poem "The Anniversary" which captures the essence of a long-lasting relationship and the power of memories to sustain it.
At first glance, "The Anniversary" seems like a simple and straightforward poem, narrating the celebration of a couple's wedding anniversary. However, upon closer examination, one can discern a deeper layer of meaning and symbolism that elevates the poem from a mere sentimental tribute to a profound meditation on the human condition.
Plot Summary
The poem begins with the speaker addressing his wife on their wedding anniversary, thanking her for the years they have spent together and expressing his love and admiration for her. He recalls the moment they met and fell in love, and how they have faced the challenges and joys of life as a team.
He then describes the gifts he has brought her, which are not material objects but intangible treasures that represent their shared memories and experiences. He gives her a "cup of kisses" for the sweet moments they have shared, a "ring of rhyme" for the poems and songs he has written for her, a "crown of love" for the sacrifices and devotion they have shown to each other, and a "robe of dreams" for the hopes and aspirations they still have for their future.
The speaker concludes by affirming his commitment to his wife and their love, saying that even in death they will be united in spirit and memory. He invites her to dance with him, as they have done on their wedding day, and to cherish the moment as a testament to their enduring bond.
Literary Analysis
One of the most striking features of "The Anniversary" is its use of metaphor and symbolism to convey the theme of love and memory. Each of the gifts the speaker gives his wife represents a different aspect of their relationship, and each is imbued with a rich symbolic significance.
For example, the "cup of kisses" suggests the sweetness and intimacy of their love, as well as the idea of a shared cup that they can drink from together. The "ring of rhyme" evokes the romantic and artistic side of their relationship, as well as the circularity and continuity of their love. The "crown of love" alludes to the loyalty and devotion they have shown to each other, as well as the idea of a regal and noble love that transcends earthly concerns. Finally, the "robe of dreams" implies the hope and imagination that still animate their love, as well as the idea of a shared vision and destiny.
Another important element of the poem is its use of repetition and refrain, which create a sense of rhythm and musicality that enhances its emotional impact. The refrain "And we'll go hand in hand" reinforces the idea of a shared journey and a mutual support that has sustained the couple throughout their marriage. Moreover, the repetition of "ring" and "crown" adds a poetic resonance and depth to the images, as well as a sense of continuity and recurrence that mirrors the couple's long-lasting love.
Furthermore, the poem employs a conversational and colloquial tone that makes it accessible and relatable to a wide audience. The speaker's voice is sincere, tender, and heartfelt, without being overly sentimental or melodramatic. He speaks as a man who has experienced the ups and downs of life and love, and who has found in his partner a source of comfort, joy, and inspiration.
Interpretation
"The Anniversary" can be interpreted in many ways, depending on the reader's perspective and experience. However, some of the most salient themes and messages of the poem are:
The Power of Memories
The poem celebrates the role of memories in sustaining a relationship and keeping it alive. The gifts the speaker gives his wife are not mere trinkets or souvenirs, but reminders of the love, trust, and affection they have shared over the years. By evoking past experiences and emotions, the gifts renew and reinforce the couple's sense of connection and intimacy. Moreover, the poem suggests that memories are not only a source of comfort and joy, but also a way of transcending time and space, and of keeping the beloved close even after death.
The Strength of Commitment
The poem emphasizes the importance of commitment and dedication in a successful relationship. The speaker's words and actions reveal his unwavering loyalty and devotion to his wife, as well as his willingness to sacrifice and work for their mutual happiness. He views their marriage not as a mere legal or social contract, but as a spiritual and emotional bond that transcends appearances and circumstances. Furthermore, the poem suggests that commitment is not a one-time decision, but an ongoing process of renewal and growth, that requires patience, forgiveness, and understanding.
The Beauty of Aging
The poem challenges the stereotype of love as a youthful and fleeting passion, and celebrates the beauty and richness of aging. The speaker's words and gestures reveal his admiration and love for his wife, not despite her wrinkles, gray hair, and frailty, but because of them. He sees in her the wisdom, grace, and resilience that come with experience and maturity. Moreover, the poem suggests that aging is not a sign of decline or decay, but a natural and inevitable part of life, that can be embraced and celebrated as a mark of endurance and wisdom.
Conclusion
"The Anniversary" is a beautiful and moving poem that captures the essence of a long-lasting relationship and the power of memories to sustain it. Through its use of metaphor, symbolism, and repetition, the poem evokes the themes of love, memory, commitment, and aging, in a way that is both poetic and accessible. Furthermore, the poem's conversational and colloquial tone, its sincerity and tenderness, make it a timeless and universal tribute to love and its enduring power.
Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation
The Anniversary: A Poem of Love and Loss
Robert Service, the renowned poet, has left an indelible mark on the world of literature with his captivating and evocative works. One such masterpiece is "The Anniversary," a poem that captures the essence of love, loss, and the enduring power of memory.
The poem begins with the speaker reminiscing about a past love, a woman who had left an indelible mark on his heart. He recalls the day they first met, the way she looked at him, and the way her smile lit up the room. The speaker's love for her is palpable, and it is clear that she had a profound impact on his life.
As the poem progresses, the speaker reveals that the woman has passed away, and he is left to mourn her loss. He visits her grave on their anniversary, bringing flowers and memories of their time together. The speaker's grief is raw and poignant, and it is evident that he still loves her deeply, even in death.
The poem's central theme is the enduring power of memory. The speaker's love for the woman is not diminished by her passing; instead, it is strengthened by the memories they shared. The speaker's visit to her grave is a testament to the power of memory to keep love alive, even in the face of death.
The poem's structure is simple but effective. It is divided into three stanzas, each with four lines. The first stanza sets the scene, introducing the speaker and his love for the woman. The second stanza reveals her passing and the speaker's grief. The final stanza is a poignant tribute to their love, as the speaker lays flowers on her grave and remembers their time together.
Service's use of language is masterful, with each word carefully chosen to convey the speaker's emotions. The poem is full of vivid imagery, from the woman's smile to the flowers on her grave. The use of repetition, such as the repeated use of "anniversary," adds to the poem's emotional impact, emphasizing the importance of memory and the enduring nature of love.
The poem's message is universal, resonating with anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one. It speaks to the power of memory to keep love alive, even in the face of death. The poem is a tribute to the enduring power of love, and a reminder that even in death, love can still be felt and celebrated.
In conclusion, "The Anniversary" is a masterpiece of poetry, capturing the essence of love, loss, and memory. Service's use of language, imagery, and repetition creates a powerful emotional impact, leaving the reader with a sense of the enduring power of love. The poem is a testament to the human experience, and a reminder that even in death, love can still be celebrated and remembered.
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