Bhumi’s blog : W. H. Auden

Wystan Hugh Auden, commonly known as W.H. Auden, was an influential Anglo-American poet born in 1907. His works are characterised by their profound insight into human nature, social issues, and existential concerns. Auden's poetry often combines formal structure with modern themes, exploring topics such as love, politics, religion, and the complexities of the human condition. He rose to prominence in the 1930s with works like "Funeral Blues" and "September 1, 1939," which reflected the tumultuous events of his time. Auden's distinctive voice and literary craftsmanship have cemented his legacy as one of the greatest poets of the 20th century. This blog, assigned by Barad Sir, is based on Worksheet of Auden’s Poems. For more information check out this blog - W. H. Auden’s Poems

Worksheet 1

This worksheet is based on the Poem “September 1, 1939”. You can check out the entire poem here - “September 1, 1939”

W. H. Auden's poem "September 1, 1939" is written on the day Germany invaded Poland. This incident affected the poet as he expected great political turmoil ahead. It is set in New York City on the eve of the war.

The poem begins with the speaker sitting in a bar on Fifty-second Street, feeling uncertain and afraid as he observes the world around him. He contemplates history’s grim lessons from Luther to Hitler. He reflects on the lesson he learnt in school “Those to whom evil is done, do evil in return”. The Athenian historian Thucydides' insights on dictatorship haunts him. He expresses disillusionment with the facade of unity and democracy presented by the neutral country America. He questions how long people can continue living under the pretence of this false ideal while the government's actions contradict it.

At the bar, he observes others clinging to the comfort of everyday routines, and criticises the tendency for individuals to prioritise their own desires over universal love and care for others. He believes in the power of his own voice to challenge societal lies. He finds hope in the connections forged by those committed to justice, pledging to support this hope with their own voice.

Auden's language in the poem is rich and evocative. He employs vivid imagery to paint a picture of the political turmoil of the time, with phrases like "Waves of anger and fear" and "blind skyscrapers" evoking powerful visual and emotional images. The language is also characterised by historical references, such as "Linz" and "Thucydides," which add depth and context to the poem's themes.

The structure of the poem is crafted to enhance its thematic exploration. Divided into eleven stanzas of varying lengths, the poem allows for the development of different ideas and themes. Auden employs repetition to reinforce key themes and ideas like fear and uncertainty. The poem features shifts in focus and perspective, moving between reflections on the state of the world and personal introspection, ultimately building towards a climax and resolution in the final stanzas.

“September 1, 1939” was written before the outbreak of World War II. Auden composed the poem in New York City shortly after the invasion of Poland by Nazi Germany. While the poem was not a direct response to the war itself, it was influenced by the growing tensions of the time, including the rise of totalitarian regimes in Europe and the looming threat of global conflict. Auden, living in the United States, was deeply engaged with these events and felt compelled to comment on the state of the world as he perceived it.

This poem forces us to contemplate our roles and responsibilities in times of crisis. It also warns us against staying silent or neutral when injustice is happening.

Worksheet 2

Question 1: What is the setting of the poem?

The setting of the poem is a dive or bar On 52nd Street in New York City, on the eve of invasion of Poland by Germany on September 1, 1939.

Question 2: What is the mood of the poem?

The mood of the poem is somber, reflective and contemplative with moments of uncertainty, fear and existential questioning.

Question 3: What is the significance of September 1, 1939 in the poem?

It is the day when Nazi Germany invaded Poland. This date serves as a backdrop for speakers reflection on the state of the world and challenges of uncertain times.

Question 4: What is the theme of the poem?

The themes of the poem are - Uncertainty, fear, reflection on society and historical events, leading up to World War I.

Question 5: what is the role of history in the poem?

History plays a significant role as it serves as the backdrop for speakers reflection on the world. The poem references historical events, and figures like Martin Luther and Thucydides. These references provide context for the speakers contemplation.

Question 6: Explain the line “We must love one another or die”.

In the context of the poem, it reflects the speaker’s belief in the importance of love, compassion, and connection in the face of adversity and despair. It suggests that without love and mutual respect, humanity faces a bleak and desolate existence. Additionally, the word “die” carries a dual meaning, referring both to physical death and to the spiritual and emotional decay that can result from a lack of love and human connection.

Question 7: What is the significance of the “Ironic point of light” in the poem?

The ironic points of light in the poem symbolise moments of hope, resistance, and resilience amidst the darkness and despair of the world. They represent instances where individuals, despite feeling overwhelmed by the negativity around them, continue to stand up for justice and exchange messages of solidarity. These points of light serve as beacons of optimism and defiance against the prevailing sense of hopelessness, urging others to affirm their humanity and strive for a better world.

Question 8: Write explanation on anyone’s stanza of the poem.

Accurate scholarship can  

Unearth the whole offence 

From Luther until now 

That has driven a culture mad,

 Find what occurred at Linz, 

What huge imago made 

A psychopathic god: 

I and the public know 

What all schoolchildren learn, 

Those to whom evil is done 

Do evil in return.

In this stanza, the speaker suggests that careful study and understanding of history can reveal the root causes of societal problems. They mention figures like Martin Luther and events like what happened in Linz, referencing historical contexts that have contributed to the madness and turmoil of society. The speaker implies that by examining history, we can uncover the factors that lead to destructive behaviors and beliefs. Additionally, the stanza touches on the idea that people who experience harm or injustice may sometimes respond with harmful actions themselves, highlighting the cyclical nature of violence and injustice.

For better understanding of this poem check out this video -