Sleep With Death Bryant example essay topic
Instead of referring to death he uses the word slumber. These connections continue in a number of places. Other examples include lines 57 and 66. In line 57 he writes, In their last sleep the dead reign there alone, and in line 66, referring to death and burial, Bryant writes, And make their bed with thee. This connection between death and sleep creates an intriguing metaphor which adds depth and meaning to the poem.
By using this strange metaphor I believe Bryant wishes to suggest his faith in an afterlife. While examining the differences and similarities of death and sleep the reader is left with some very thought provoking questions. The answers to these questions reassure some readers while confusing others. Sleep is a time of rest. It allows preparation for the next day or event, and by relating this definition to death Bryant gives new insight on one's fate after earthly existence. When identifying sleep with death Bryant gives death many characteristics of slumber.
People generally wake from sleep, and Bryant expands this occurrence to death. Death could simply be a time of rest that retires the bodies of earthly beings, and allows the soul to wake. Upon waking the soul is freed and enters a new plane of existence. This idea of a spiritual awakening is demonstrated in Thanatopsis.
In lines 50 and 51 Bryant writes, Take the wings of morning, pierce the Barc an wilderness. To me, the wings in this statement symbolize a spiritual, angelic being, and the morning suggests a time of waking. After waking, the angelic being breaks through the confinement of the human grave, and continues its existence elsewhere. In my opinion these lines indicate Bryant's belief in an afterlife. After reflective meditation in the wilderness Bryant comes to terms with death. He knows death is a conclusion to the material world, but in this conclusion is a type of rebirth.
Bryant believes death prepares the soul for its next journey. With this belief he is put at ease, but I cannot say the same for myself. I am truly confused about the subject. It.