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Poetry analysis: Morning Song, by Sylvia Plath

This poem epitomizes Sylvia Plath's affectionate side. Even though Plath was going through a hard time with depression during her life, she still had love for her children, which is typified in the poem "Morning Song" (1961).

From scrutinizing the first three lines, it appears that she is remembering the birth of one of her children. For example, the first line states the following: "Love set you going like a fat gold watch." This line can be interpreted as the birthing of a fat child or a rather big child.

The following line, "The midwife slapped your footsoles, and your bald cry," appears to be a child who is born unresponsive and is pinched, or scratched below the foot, precipitating him or her to weep. Subsequently, the infant comes to life, supported by line 3: "Took its place among the elements."

When the infant weeps, it signifies his/her presence into the world and is placed amongst the elements of humankind. Line 4, "Our voices echo, magnifying your arrival. New statue," illustrates the happiness of Plath and her significant other who are elated by the arrival of their new child.

The label "new statue" shows that an infant is born and will be given the utmost attention possible. The following lines, 10 through 12, support that notion with the following: "All night your moth-breath / Flickers among the flat pink roses. I wake to listen: / A far sea moves in my ear."

Like every compassionate mother, Plath is attentive to her newborn child. "One cry, and I stumble from bed, cow-heavy and floral / In my Victorian nightgown," confirms that she is a loving mother who would do anything to pacify the cries of her child.

The final three lines are caring and beautiful. When she hears the cries of her child, she quickly attends to him or her to render calmness by method of bottle feeding, which subdues the crying, verified by lines 16 and 17: "Whitens and swallows its dull stars." And now you try your handful of notes." The two lines show happiness of a child who's been fed.

Moreover, the clear notes the child makes show its cheerfulness after feeding. The poem is absolutely delightful, and the abundance of imagery illuminates throughout.

This poem celebrates the birth of a newborn. Metaphorically, the title "Morning Song" may be interpreted as an infant crying in the morning hours; when the infant cries, it is music to Plath's ears and she takes pleasure in pacifying those cries.

In all, the consistency throughout the poem shows the love and tenderness Sylvia Plath has for her newborn - similar to how many mothers feel about their child/children. Appropriately, they will pain and annoy, but their presence is a blessing and refreshing.

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Poetry analysis: Morning Song, by Sylvia Plath

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