Death's Protest

Author: Ella Wheeler Wilcox

    Why dost thou shrink from my approach, O Man?
    Why dost thou ever flee in fear, and cling
    To my false rival, Life?    I do but bring
    Thee rest and calm.    Then wherefore dost thou ban
    And curse me?    Since the forming of God's plan
         I have not hurt or harmed a mortal thing,
         I have bestowed sweet balm for every sting,
    And peace eternal for earth's stormy span.

    The wild mad prayers for comfort sent in vain
         To knock at the indifferent heart of Life,
        I, Death, have answered.    Knowest thou not 'tis he,
    My cruel rival, who sends all thy pain
         And wears the soul out in unending strife?
        Why dost thou hold to him, then, spurning me?
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Type of Poem: Sonnet

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

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Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: This poem is a profound exploration of the human fear of death and our paradoxical relationship with life. The embodiment of Death is used as the speaker, affording an unusual perspective. Death is personified as a misunderstood entity, offering rest, ease, and resolution from the struggles of life, and is perplexed by mankind's persistent dread and rejection. This subversion of the typical portrayal of death is a striking literary device, prompting us to reevaluate our perspectives on life and death.

The poem is structured as a Petrarchan sonnet, with an octave and sestet that respectively present a problem and a resolution. The octave communicates Death's confusion at being shunned, while the sestet contains an argument against Life, illustrating it as the true source of human suffering. The tone is pleading and almost melancholic, as Death seeks to understand why it is feared and reviled, while the harsh realities of life are accepted. The use of archaic language like 'dost thou' and 'thee' gives the poem a timeless quality, indicating the enduring nature of these existential questions. The poem's theme is a deep philosophical musing on the human condition, our fear of the unknown, and our acceptance of familiar pain over uncertain peace.

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.