Murmurs in the Gloom by Thomas Hardy

Name: Murmurs in the Gloom
Author: Thomas Hardy

The work presents a contemplative exploration of societal disillusionment and the search for truth amidst a backdrop of despair. It begins with a speaker reflecting on the collective sighs of humanity, suggesting a deep-seated yearning for guidance and enlightenment. The speaker addresses various societal figures—leaders, teachers, and scribes—criticizing their failure to provide meaningful direction and their reliance on outdated ideas. The text conveys a sense of urgency, questioning the motives of those in power and their impact on the populace. The speaker laments the lack of visionary leaders who could illuminate the path forward, instead highlighting the prevalence of empty rhetoric and superficial solutions. The imagery evokes a world shrouded in darkness, where the potential for progress is stifled by complacency and ignorance. As the narrative unfolds, it delves into themes of responsibility and the moral obligation of individuals to seek and promote truth. The speaker's call for accountability resonates throughout, emphasizing the need for a collective awakening to challenge the status quo. The work ultimately serves as a poignant critique of societal structures and a plea for a more enlightened and compassionate approach to leadership and education. The tone is reflective and somber, underscoring the weight of the issues at hand while simultaneously igniting a spark of hope for change. The speaker's yearning for clarity and purpose encapsulates a broader human struggle against the forces that perpetuate suffering and stagnation. Through its rich imagery and evocative language, the piece invites readers to contemplate their own roles in the pursuit of truth and the betterment of society.

By Thomas Hardy · First published 1917 · Genre: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Philosophical · 289 words

First lines

(NOCTURNE)

I WAYFARED at the nadir of the sun / Where populations meet, though seen of none; / And millions seemed to sigh around / As though their haunts were nigh around, / And unknown throngs to cry around / Of things late done.

"O Seers, who well might high ensample show" / (Came throbbing past in plainsong small and slow), / "Leaders who lead us aimlessly, / Teachers who train us shamelessly, / Why let ye smoulder flamelessly / The truths ye trow?

"Ye scribes, that urge the old medicament, / Whose fusty vials have long dried impotent, / Why prop ye meretricious things, / Denounce the sane as vicious things, / And call outworn factitious things / Expedient?

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Murmurs in the Gloom is listed on Textopian as a poem by Thomas Hardy, dated 1917 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Thomas Hardy
Date: 1917 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Philosophical, Social Critique, Romanticism
Length: 289 words
Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)

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Genres

Poetry — The work is written in verse and employs poetic devices, reflecting themes of existential contemplation and societal critique.
Literary Fiction — The text explores deep themes related to human experience, societal issues, and philosophical inquiries, characteristic of literary fiction.
Philosophical — The poem raises questions about existence, leadership, and societal norms, aligning it with philosophical literature.
Social Critique — The content critiques societal structures and the roles of leaders, making it relevant to the genre of social critique.