Christina Rossetti and James Weldon Johnson on Death/dying

Introduction

Death is a common theme explored by various poets across the globe, primarily because it evokes a spectrum of feelings and emotions shared by all humans. It is a universal subject as it impacts individuals from all walks of life, often experienced through the loss of close friends and family. This universality makes death an accessible yet complex theme for poets crafting poems and sonnets. Christina Rossetti’s “After Death” (Rossetti, 1862) and James Weldon Johnson’s “Mother Night” (Johnson, 1922) both depict the theme of death in ways that reflect each author's understanding of this profound topic. Through vivid descriptions and imagery, both poems effectively engage the reader's imagination, enhancing the authenticity and emotional resonance of the theme and mood.

Imagery and Visualization

The use of imagery and visualization in both poems not only highlights the differences between the two works but also establishes a connection on the subject of death. In Rossetti’s poem, for example, readers encounter feelings of uncertainty and fear, as illustrated by the line “and she turned away Came a deep silence.” The phrase “deep silence” serves as an image representing the uncertainty that accompanies death for both the individual and their loved ones. Similarly, in Johnson’s “Mother Night,” the line “Welcome the darkness without fear or doubt” employs the word “darkness” to convey themes of fear and uncertainty. This common imagery helps readers feel the poet's emotions and reinforces the visual representation of emotional breakdown and tension experienced by affected individuals. In both poems, the use of “deep silence” and “darkness” serves to portray death, enhancing the depiction of uncertainty and easing the communication of death as the central theme.

Theme of Sadness

In both poems, the theme of sadness is seamlessly and effectively conveyed. The imagery and visualization of sadness differ in each poem, with both authors employing various techniques to ensure the mood and visual representation are communicated clearly. In Rossetti’s “After Death,” the line “Poor child, poor child” underscores the somber mood. The man beside the deathbed expresses sorrow and pity for the persona, believing they cannot hear him. In contrast, Johnson’s “Mother Night” conveys the expected mood differently, using the line “And heavy-lidded” to depict the persona's sadness. These words transport readers into the world of agony experienced by the persona. The distinct approaches used by the two poets highlight their differences while simultaneously emphasizing the common theme of sadness. The imagery of sadness in both poems underscores the necessity of overcoming grief and sorrow.

Theme of Courage

The theme of courage is effectively portrayed by both poets, serving as an essential element in the situations faced by the personas in each poem. Although the expressions of courage differ, a comparison reveals the shared theme of bravery among the characters. In Johnson’s “Mother Night,” the words “Welcome darkness without fear” emphasize the persona’s readiness to confront whatever lies ahead, reflecting their courageous spirit. In Rossetti’s poem, courage is depicted through the lines “He pitied me; and very sweet it is / to know he still is warm though I am cold,” illustrating the courage of the person the persona speaks about. These examples highlight how both poets successfully integrate the theme of courage into their works, offering readers a deeper understanding of facing challenges with bravery.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both Christina Rossetti’s “After Death” and James Weldon Johnson’s “Mother Night” masterfully explore the themes of death, sadness, and courage through vivid imagery and visualization. The differences in their approaches highlight each poet's unique perspective, while their shared themes underscore the universal nature of these human experiences. By engaging readers’ imaginations and emotions, both poets succeed in conveying the complexity and depth of these profound topics.

References

• Johnson, J. W. (1922). Mother Night. In The Book of American Negro Poetry. Harcourt, Brace and Company.
• Rossetti, C. (1862). After Death. In Goblin Market and Other Poems. Macmillan and Co.