Benjamin Pantier
The narrative centers on the life and reflections of an attorney who has succumbed to despair and isolation. He shares a grave with his loyal dog, Nig, symbolizing companionship amidst loneliness. The protagonist recounts his early aspirations and dreams, which were ultimately overshadowed by a relationship that drained his spirit and ambition. This relationship, presumably with a woman, is depicted as a trap that led to his emotional and psychological decline. As he reminisces, the attorney reveals a sense of betrayal and loss, feeling abandoned by friends and society as he becomes increasingly withdrawn. His life devolves into a monotonous existence, marked by drinking and solitude, with only Nig for company. The imagery of the grave and the bond with his dog underscores themes of loyalty, loss, and the passage of time. The attorney's reflections convey a deep sense of resignation and acceptance of his fate, as he acknowledges the futility of his past aspirations. The work encapsulates the struggle between ambition and the harsh realities of life, ultimately portraying a poignant commentary on human relationships and the impact of love and loss. The closing lines emphasize the silence that envelops his story, suggesting a broader commentary on the indifference of the world to individual suffering.
By Edgar Lee Masters · First published 1916 · Genre: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Tragedy · 164 words
First lines
Together in this grave lie Benjamin Pantier, attorney at law, And Nig, his dog, constant companion, solace and friend.
Down the gray road, friends, children, men and women, Passing one by one out of life, left me till I was alone With Nig for partner, bed-fellow, comrade in drink.
In the morning of life I knew aspiration and saw glory, Then she, who survives me, snared my soul With a snare which bled me to death, Till I, once strong of will, lay broken, indifferent, Living with Nig in a room back of a dingy office.
Under my jawbone is snuggled the bony nose of Nig --
What this Textopian page supports
Benjamin Pantier is listed on Textopian as a poem by Edgar Lee Masters, dated 1916 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Edgar Lee Masters
- Date: 1916 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Tragedy, Philosophical, Biography
- Length: 164 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Literary Fiction — The themes explore deep emotional and existential issues, focusing on the human condition.
- Tragedy — The narrative conveys a sense of loss, despair, and the decline of the protagonist.
- Philosophical — The text reflects on life, death, and the nature of companionship and solitude.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · Symbolism · Psychological Insight · Character Study · Free Verse · Modernism · Existentialism · Philosophical Themes · Social Commentary · Human Nature · Emotional Depth