East And West

By Matthew Arnold

Sonnet
    In the bare midst of Anglesey they show     Two springs which close by one another play,     And, Thirteen hundred years agone, they say,     Two saints met often where those waters flow.     One came from Penmon, westward, and a glow     Whitend his face from the suns fronting ray.     Eastward the other, from the dying day;     And he with unsunnd face did always go.     Seiriol the Bright, Kybi the Dark, men said.     The Ser from the East was then in light,     The Ser from the West was then in shade.     Ah! now tis changed. In conquering sunshine bright     The man of the bold West now comes arrayd;     He of the mystic East is touchd with night.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem beautifully intertwines themes of time, change, and the contrast between light and darkness. The poet employs a narrative approach to describe two historical figures, Seiriol the Bright and Kybi the Dark, using their physical journey towards each other as a metaphor for their contrasting characteristics. The structure of the poem follows a traditional rhyme scheme which adds a rhythmic quality to the narrative, enhancing the storytelling aspect of the piece.

The use of light and dark imagery is a standout literary device in this poem, representing not only the physical aspects of the two figures but also symbolizing the dichotomy between knowledge and ignorance, good and evil, or optimism and pessimism. The transition from day to night in the final stanza signifies a change in power or status between the two figures, showing that time can bring unexpected changes. The tone of the poem is contemplative and slightly melancholic, capturing the inevitable shifts that occur over time. Overall, this poem invites the reader to reflect on the passage of time, the inevitability of change, and the fluid nature of power and status.

Understanding the Sonnet

The sonnet is one of the most enduring and celebrated forms of poetry, known for its strict structure and profound themes. With a history spanning centuries, sonnets have been used to explore love, beauty, politics, and mortality, all within the confines of just 14 lines.

Sonnets are characterized by their precise form and rhyme scheme, which vary depending on the type of sonnet. Here’s a closer look:

  • Shakespearean (English) Sonnet: Composed of three quatrains followed by a final couplet, with a rhyme scheme of ABABCDCDEFEFGG. This form often builds a complex argument or narrative, culminating in a powerful closing statement.
  • Petrarchan (Italian) Sonnet: Divided into an octave (eight lines) and a sestet (six lines), with a typical rhyme scheme of ABBAABBA for the octave, followed by various patterns in the sestet such as CDECDE or CDCDCD. The octave usually presents a problem, with the sestet providing a resolution.
  • Meter: Sonnets are traditionally written in iambic pentameter, which gives the poem a rhythmic and melodic quality that enhances its emotional impact.

The sonnet’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to condense complex emotions and ideas into a small but potent package, making it a favorite form for poets seeking to explore profound themes with precision and elegance.