An Anniversary by Thomas Hardy
The poem reflects on the passage of time and the enduring nature of certain places and experiences. It begins by establishing a connection between the present moment and a past event, emphasizing the sameness of the date and the physical landscape. The speaker notes that while the surroundings remain familiar, there are significant changes in the emotional and physical state of the individuals involved. As the poem progresses, it contrasts the constancy of the environment with the deterioration of the human condition. The imagery of the tree, which appears to suffer from age and neglect, symbolizes the inevitable decline that accompanies the passage of time. The wall, once sturdy, now shows signs of wear, and the absence of vibrant life in the garth suggests loss and mourning. The speaker's reflections evoke a sense of nostalgia and sorrow, as they grapple with the changes that have occurred since the significant event. The physical markers of the past serve as reminders of what has been lost, highlighting the theme of memory and the impact of time on relationships and personal history. Ultimately, the work captures the tension between the permanence of nature and the transience of human life, illustrating how moments of joy can be overshadowed by the inevitability of change and loss. The poem concludes with a poignant acknowledgment of the emotional weight carried by the speaker, as they confront the reality of their memories and the passage of time.
By Thomas Hardy · First published 1917 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Lyric · 218 words
First lines
IT was at the very date to which we have come, / In the month of the matching name, / When, at a like minute, the sun had upswum, / Its couch-time at night being the same. / And the same path stretched here that people now follow, / And the same stile crossed their way, / And beyond the same green hillock and hollow / The same horizon lay; / And the same man pilgrims now hereby who pilgrimed here that day.
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An Anniversary is listed on Textopian as a poem by Thomas Hardy, dated 1917 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Thomas Hardy
- Date: 1917 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romanticism, Lyric, Nature Writing, Philosophical
- Length: 218 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythmic and lyrical language typical of poetry.
- Romanticism — The themes of nature, time, and reflection on human experience align with Romantic ideals.
- Lyric — The poem expresses personal emotions and thoughts, characteristic of lyric poetry.
- Nature Writing — The vivid descriptions of the natural landscape emphasize the connection between humanity and nature.
Tags
love · loss · memory · regret · nostalgia · relationships · time · reflection · poetry · emotion · nature · human experience