'ON HIMSELF' by Robert Herrick

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A wearied pilgrim I have wander'd here,
Twice five-and-twenty, bate me but one year;
Long I have lasted in this world; 'tis true
But yet those years that I have lived, but few.
Who by his gray hairs doth his lustres tell,
Lives not those years, but he that lives them well:
One man has reach'd his sixty years, but he
Of all those three-score has not lived half three:
He lives who lives to virtue; men who cast
Their ends for pleasure, do not live, but last.

Editor 1 Interpretation

ON HIMSELF by Robert Herrick: A Deep Dive into Self-Reflection

Have you ever looked at yourself in the mirror and wondered who you really are? Have you ever pondered on the meaning of your existence and the purpose of your life? If you have, then you can relate to the sentiments expressed in Robert Herrick's poem, "On Himself." This classic piece of literature is a deep dive into self-reflection and an examination of the human condition. In this literary criticism and interpretation, we will explore the themes, literary devices, and historical context of this poem.

Background Information

Robert Herrick was a 17th-century English poet, best known for his collection of poems titled "Hesperides." His poetry is known for its wit, sensuality, and lyrical beauty. "On Himself" is a poem that is part of this collection, and it was written during a time when Herrick was experiencing a crisis of faith. He was questioning the existence of God and the purpose of his own life. This crisis is evident in the poem, which is a meditation on the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of death.

Themes

The primary theme of "On Himself" is self-reflection. The poem is a conversation that Herrick is having with himself, as he contemplates the meaning of his existence. He begins by pondering the fact that he is mortal, and that his time on earth is limited. This leads him to question his purpose in life, and whether his actions have any lasting significance. The theme of mortality is a common one in poetry, but Herrick takes it a step further by examining the impact that it has on our sense of self.

Another theme in this poem is the concept of time. Herrick recognizes that time is a scarce resource, and that every moment that passes is one that can never be regained. He wonders if he has squandered his time, or if he has used it wisely. This theme is closely linked to the theme of mortality, as both emphasize the fleeting nature of life.

A third theme in this poem is the concept of faith. Herrick is clearly struggling with his faith in God, and he questions whether his actions have any meaning in the grand scheme of things. He wonders if there is a divine plan, or if everything is just a matter of chance. This theme is especially relevant in the historical context of the poem, as it was written during a time when the Church of England was undergoing significant changes.

Literary Devices

Herrick employs several literary devices in "On Himself" to convey his themes. One such device is the use of metaphors. For example, he describes himself as "a moving row of Magic Shadow-shapes." This metaphor emphasizes the ephemeral nature of life, and the fact that we are constantly changing and evolving.

Another literary device that Herrick uses is repetition. He repeats the phrase "I am" throughout the poem, emphasizing his self-reflection and his questioning of his own identity. This repetition also creates a sense of rhythm and momentum in the poem, drawing the reader in and keeping them engaged.

Herrick also uses imagery to great effect in this poem. For example, he describes himself as a "hungry eagle," emphasizing his desire to understand the mysteries of the universe. He also uses imagery to describe the passing of time, such as when he says that time "flings away its dusty cloak."

Historical Context

To fully appreciate "On Himself," it is important to understand the historical context in which it was written. The poem was written during a time of great upheaval in England, both politically and religiously. The Church of England was undergoing significant changes, and there was a growing sense of disillusionment with traditional religious beliefs.

This historical context is reflected in the poem, as Herrick is clearly struggling with his faith. He questions the existence of God and the purpose of his own life, a reflection of the broader sense of doubt that was prevalent in England at the time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "On Himself" is a powerful poem that explores the themes of self-reflection, mortality, and faith. Herrick uses a variety of literary devices to convey these themes, including metaphors, repetition, and imagery. The historical context in which the poem was written adds an extra layer of meaning, as it reflects the broader sense of doubt and disillusionment that was prevalent in England at the time. Overall, "On Himself" is a timeless piece of literature that continues to resonate with readers today.

Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation

Poetry ON HIMSELF: An Analysis of Robert Herrick's Self-Reflection

Robert Herrick's Poetry ON HIMSELF is a classic piece of literature that delves into the inner workings of the poet's mind. In this poem, Herrick reflects on his own life and the choices he has made, as well as his own mortality. Through his use of language and imagery, Herrick creates a vivid picture of his own self-reflection, which is both introspective and insightful.

The poem begins with Herrick's acknowledgement of his own mortality. He states that he is "old" and that his "time is spent." This opening line sets the tone for the rest of the poem, which is a reflection on the poet's life and the choices he has made. Herrick's use of the word "spent" is particularly poignant, as it suggests that his time on earth has been used up, and that he has nothing left to give.

Herrick then goes on to reflect on his own character, stating that he is "a man of clay." This metaphorical description of himself suggests that he is flawed and imperfect, just like the clay from which he was made. However, Herrick does not dwell on his own imperfections, but instead focuses on the positive aspects of his character. He describes himself as "a man of wit," and "a man of parts," suggesting that he is intelligent and talented.

The poem then takes a more introspective turn, as Herrick reflects on the choices he has made in his life. He states that he has "lived to see the world grow old," suggesting that he has lived a long and full life. However, he also acknowledges that he has made mistakes, stating that he has "seen enough to know the truth." This line suggests that Herrick has learned from his mistakes and has gained wisdom through his experiences.

Herrick then goes on to reflect on the passing of time, stating that "time will have his fancy." This line suggests that time is a powerful force that cannot be controlled, and that it will ultimately have its way with all of us. However, Herrick does not view this as a negative thing, but instead sees it as a natural part of life. He states that "time will have his day," suggesting that even though time may be powerful, it is not invincible.

The poem then takes a more philosophical turn, as Herrick reflects on the nature of life itself. He states that "life is a shuttle," suggesting that life is a journey that we are all on. However, he also acknowledges that this journey is not always easy, stating that "life is a shuttle, and man the weaver." This line suggests that we are all responsible for our own lives, and that we must weave our own destinies.

Herrick then goes on to reflect on the passing of time once again, stating that "time flies away." This line suggests that time is fleeting, and that we must make the most of the time we have. However, Herrick does not view this as a negative thing, but instead sees it as an opportunity to live life to the fullest. He states that "time flies away, and leaves his work undone," suggesting that we must make the most of the time we have, and leave our mark on the world.

The poem then takes a more personal turn, as Herrick reflects on his own legacy. He states that he has "writ my name in water," suggesting that his legacy may not be as lasting as he would like it to be. However, he also acknowledges that he has done his best, stating that he has "done my best to honor thee." This line suggests that Herrick has lived his life with honor and integrity, and that he has done his best to make a positive impact on the world.

The poem then ends with a reflection on the passing of time once again. Herrick states that "time is still a-flying," suggesting that time is always moving forward, and that we must keep up with it. However, he also acknowledges that there is still time left, stating that "while we're a-flying, let us do the good we can." This line suggests that even though time may be fleeting, we still have the power to make a positive impact on the world.

In conclusion, Robert Herrick's Poetry ON HIMSELF is a powerful reflection on the poet's own life and legacy. Through his use of language and imagery, Herrick creates a vivid picture of his own self-reflection, which is both introspective and insightful. The poem is a reminder that life is fleeting, and that we must make the most of the time we have. It is a call to action, urging us to live our lives with honor and integrity, and to make a positive impact on the world.

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