In Memoriam 82: I Wage Not Any Feud With Death

By Alfred Lord Tennyson

Elegy
I wage not any feud with Death For changes wrought on form and face; No lower life that earth's embrace May breed with him, can fright my faith. Eternal process moving on, From state to state the spirit walks; And these are but the shatter'd stalks, Or ruin'd chrysalis of one. Nor blame I Death, because he bare The use of virtue out of earth: I know transplanted human worth Will bloom to profit, otherwhere. For this alone on Death I wreak The wrath that garners in my heart; He put our lives so far apart We cannot hear each other speak.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem explores the vast and complex themes of death, transformation, and longing. The speaker’s tone is one of acceptance and even reconciliation with mortality, yet also harbors a deep-seated resentment towards the separation that death brings.

In terms of structure, the poem adheres to a consistent rhyme scheme, reinforcing the steady, inevitable march of time and death, while the language is rich and metaphorical. The poet uses a range of naturalistic imagery, comparing death and the transition of life to shattered stalks and a ruined chrysalis. This conveys the idea of life as a continuous process of evolution and change, suggesting that death is merely another state of existence.

The poem also presents the idea of virtue and human worth continuing to 'bloom' after death, offering a comforting vision of an afterlife. However, the final stanza introduces a poignant note of loss and anger, emphasizing the communication gap created by death. Despite the speaker’s earlier acceptance of death's inevitability, this ending reveals a lingering frustration at death's power to separate us from those we love.

The poem thus presents a nuanced exploration of our mortal condition, mixing acceptance of death's natural role in life with an emotional critique of its ultimate consequence - the severing of human connections.

Understanding Elegy

An elegy is a form of poetry that expresses sorrow or lamentation, often for someone who has died. This type of poetry serves as a tribute to the deceased, reflecting on their life and the grief left behind.

Elegies are deeply emotional and personal, exploring themes of loss, mourning, and remembrance. Here are some defining characteristics:

  • Mournful Tone: Elegies are characterized by a tone of sadness and reflection, as the poet grapples with the pain of loss.
  • Tribute to the Deceased: The subject of an elegy is often someone who has passed away, with the poem serving as a memorial that honors their life and legacy.
  • Personal Reflection: Elegies often include personal reflections on the impact of the deceased on the poet's life, as well as broader musings on mortality and the human condition.
  • Structure and Form: While elegies can vary in form, they often follow a traditional structure that includes an expression of grief, praise for the deceased, and a sense of consolation or acceptance.

From ancient times to the present, elegies have provided a way for poets to navigate the complexities of grief and loss, offering solace and a means of preserving the memory of those who have passed.