'Ninetieth Birthday' by R.S. Thomas
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You go up the long track
That will take a car, but is best walked
On slow foot, noting the lichen
That writes history on the page
Of the grey rock. Trees are about you
At first, but yield to the green bracken,
The nightjars house: you can hear it spin
On warm evenings; it is still now
In the noonday heat, only the lesser
Voices sound, blue-fly and gnat
And the stream's whisper. As the road climbs,
You will pause for breath and the far sea's
Signal will flash, till you turn again
To the steep track, buttressed with cloud.
And there at the top that old woman,
Born almost a century back
In that stone farm, awaits your coming;
Waits for the news of the lost village
She thinks she knows, a place that exists
In her memory only.
You bring her greeting
And praise for having lasted so long
With time's knife shaving the bone.
Yet no bridge joins her own
World with yours, all you can do
Is lean kindly across the abyss
To hear words that were once wise.
Submitted by Andrew Mayers
Editor 1 Interpretation
Ninetieth Birthday by R.S. Thomas
Introduction
R.S. Thomas is one of the most revered poets of the 20th century. He was known for his sharp, unflinching insight into the human condition and his ability to capture the essence of a moment in his poetry. Ninetieth Birthday is one of his most famous poems, written in honor of his mother's 90th birthday. In this poem, Thomas reflects on the passage of time, the inevitability of death, and the meaning of life.
Analysis
The poem begins with a description of the speaker's mother, who has now reached the ripe old age of 90. Thomas describes her as a "small bird" who has "outlasted the fowler's snare." This image of the bird is significant because it suggests that the mother has managed to survive despite the many dangers that life has thrown her way. She has outlasted the snare of death, just as the bird has outlasted the snare of the fowler.
The poem then shifts to a reflection on the passage of time. Thomas notes that his mother has seen many changes in her long life. She has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, observed the progress of science and technology, and seen the world become a very different place from the one she knew as a young woman. The speaker wonders what it must be like to have lived through so many changes, to have seen so much history.
As the poem progresses, Thomas turns his attention to the theme of death. He notes that his mother is "close to the end," and that her life will soon be over. He reflects on the inevitability of death, noting that it comes for us all in the end. The speaker muses on what it must be like to confront one's mortality, to know that one's time on earth is limited.
Despite the somber tone of the poem, there is also a sense of hope and gratitude. Thomas notes that his mother has lived a full life, and that she has been blessed with many good things. He reflects on the joy that she has brought to others, and notes that her life has been a gift to those around her. There is a sense that even in the face of death, there is beauty and meaning to be found in life.
Interpretation
Ninetieth Birthday is a deeply moving poem that reflects on some of the most profound themes of human existence. At its core, the poem is about the passage of time and the inevitability of death. It is a meditation on what it means to be mortal, and how we can find meaning and beauty in a world that is so often marked by suffering and loss.
One of the most powerful aspects of the poem is the way that it captures the sense of wonder and awe that comes with contemplating the mysteries of life and death. The speaker is clearly moved by his mother's long life, and he is struck by the fact that she has seen so much history unfold before her eyes. He wonders what it must be like to have lived through such momentous times, and he is humbled by the thought that his own time on earth is limited.
At the same time, there is a sense of acceptance and peace in the poem. Thomas acknowledges that death is inevitable, but he also notes that his mother has lived a full and meaningful life. He reflects on the joy that she has brought to others, and he notes that her presence in the world has been a gift. There is a sense that even in the face of death, there is beauty and meaning to be found in life.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ninetieth Birthday is a powerful meditation on the passage of time, the inevitability of death, and the meaning of life. It is a deeply moving poem that captures the sense of wonder and awe that comes with contemplating the mysteries of human existence. Through his skillful use of language and imagery, R.S. Thomas has created a work of profound beauty and wisdom that will continue to resonate with readers for generations to come.
Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation
Ninetieth Birthday: A Celebration of Life and Legacy
R.S. Thomas, one of the most celebrated Welsh poets of the 20th century, wrote a beautiful poem titled Ninetieth Birthday. The poem is a tribute to his father, who had just turned 90 years old. It is a celebration of life, love, and legacy, and it captures the essence of what it means to live a long and fulfilling life.
The poem is divided into three stanzas, each with its own unique message. The first stanza sets the tone for the rest of the poem, with the speaker describing his father as a "man of the soil" who has lived a long and fruitful life. The speaker marvels at his father's resilience and strength, noting that he has "outlived the old prophecy" and has "survived the wars."
The second stanza is a reflection on the passing of time and the inevitability of death. The speaker acknowledges that his father's time on earth is coming to an end, but he also recognizes that his legacy will live on. He notes that his father has "planted his seed" and that his family and community will continue to reap the benefits of his hard work and dedication.
The final stanza is a celebration of the bond between father and son. The speaker expresses his gratitude for his father's love and guidance, noting that he has "taught me to be wise" and has "shown me how to live." He acknowledges that his father's legacy will live on through him and his children, and that his father's memory will always be cherished.
One of the most striking aspects of the poem is its use of imagery. Thomas uses vivid descriptions to paint a picture of his father and his life. He describes his father as a "man of the soil," which conjures up images of a hardworking farmer tending to his crops. He also uses military imagery to describe his father's resilience, noting that he has "survived the wars" and has "outlived the old prophecy."
Another notable aspect of the poem is its use of repetition. The phrase "ninety years" is repeated throughout the poem, emphasizing the significance of the milestone birthday. The repetition also serves to highlight the passing of time and the inevitability of death.
The poem is also notable for its use of language. Thomas uses simple, straightforward language to convey complex emotions and ideas. He does not rely on flowery language or elaborate metaphors, but instead uses plain language to express his love and admiration for his father.
Overall, Ninetieth Birthday is a beautiful tribute to a life well-lived. It celebrates the resilience and strength of the human spirit, and it reminds us of the importance of family and community. The poem is a testament to the power of love and the enduring legacy of those who have come before us.
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