Discussion of Rossetti’s Poetry: ‘remember’, ‘a Birthday’, and ‘amor Mundi’

Christina Rossetti’s poetry is a profound exploration of human emotions, particularly through the themes of loss, joy, and the complexities of temptation. This essay delves into three of her notable works: “Remember,” “A Birthday,” and “Amor Mundi.” Each poem presents a unique perspective on the intricacies of human experience, reflecting Rossetti’s mastery of imagery, structure, and emotional depth.

Exploring Grief and Remembrance in “Remember”

Rossetti’s poem “Remember” is a poignant sonnet that navigates the themes of loss and separation. The poem opens with a direct appeal, “Remember me when I am gone away,” establishing an intimate and personal tone. The narrator’s voice, which can be interpreted as Rossetti herself, addresses the reader and her loved one, creating an immediate connection. The opening line introduces the central theme of loss, setting a somber and melancholic atmosphere.

The imagery in the poem is rich and evocative, particularly in the phrase “silent land,” which conjures feelings of isolation and desolation. This sense of solitude is further reinforced by the repetition of “gone far away,” emphasizing the finality of death. The subsequent line, “When you can no more hold me by the hand,” brings forth a tactile memory, intensifying the narrator’s yearning for the physical presence of her loved one. This longing is palpable, as Rossetti expresses a deep desire to be remembered fondly despite the pain of separation.

The poem's structure, characterized by a consistent iambic pentameter, enhances its solemnity. The octave employs an ABBA ABBA rhyme scheme, which contrasts sharply with the sestet's more varied CDD ECE pattern. This structural shift mirrors the emotional journey of the narrator, from the grief of potential oblivion to a sense of acceptance. In the sestet, she implores her beloved not to grieve, suggesting a transformation in her understanding of love and remembrance. This evolution from sorrow to acceptance showcases Rossetti’s ability to capture the complexity of human emotions.

The Joy of Love in “A Birthday”

In stark contrast to “Remember,” Rossetti’s “A Birthday” encapsulates the exhilaration and joy associated with love. The poem’s central motif of a birthday symbolizes renewal and the celebration of life. The narrator expresses uncontainable delight at the arrival of her “love,” though the nature of this love remains open to interpretation—be it romantic, spiritual, or a broader sense of fulfillment.

The opening stanza is filled with vibrant imagery that celebrates the beauty of nature. The comparison of her heart to a “singing bird” evokes a sense of vitality and joy, suggesting a liberating form of expression. The use of enjambment throughout the stanza contributes to its lyrical quality, reinforcing the sense of buoyancy and freedom. The imagery of a “nest” in a “water’d shoot” symbolizes care and growth, further emphasizing the theme of nurturing love.

As the poem progresses, the tone shifts towards a more mystical quality. The introduction of motifs like “rainbow shell” and “halcyon sea” juxtaposes the tangible beauty of nature with intangible spiritual elements. This duality reflects Rossetti’s complex view of the world, where joy and transcendence coexist. The narrator’s declaration that her “heart is gladder than all these” underscores the profound impact of love on her life.

In the second stanza, the narrator’s tone becomes more imperative, commanding the creation of extravagant symbols of her joy. The series of visual motifs—“dais of silk,” “vair,” “purple dyes,” and “gold and silver grapes”—represent the intensification of her emotions. This section culminates in an epiphany, as the narrator recognizes that the “birthday” of her life has arrived, signifying the arrival of her love.

The Dualities of “Amor Mundi”

In “Amor Mundi,” Rossetti explores the themes of temptation and corruption through a dialogue between two contrasting voices. The poem begins with a question, “O where are you going…,” evoking a sense of freedom and vitality through the imagery of “love-locks flowing.” This suggests the allure of temptation, particularly within the context of Victorian ideals of femininity and seduction.

The first voice expresses a carefree attitude, while the second voice responds with a playful tone, luring the listener into a path of indulgence and pleasure. This dialogue creates a dynamic tension between the two perspectives, highlighting the allure and danger of temptation. The imagery of “honey-breathing heather” symbolizes both beauty and moral corruption, foreshadowing the characters’ eventual downfall as they pursue unrestrained pleasure.

Throughout the poem, Rossetti employs motifs of nature and sensuality to illustrate the dualities inherent in human experience. The seductive imagery draws the reader in, while simultaneously warning of the consequences of succumbing to temptation. The characters’ desire to “escape uphill by never turning back” reflects a universal struggle with the balance between pleasure and moral integrity.

Conclusion

Christina Rossetti’s poetry masterfully captures the complexities of human emotions through her exploration of love, loss, and temptation. In “Remember,” she delves into the depths of grief and the desire for remembrance, while “A Birthday” celebrates the exuberance of love and renewal. “Amor Mundi” presents a cautionary tale about the allure of temptation and its potential for corruption. Collectively, these works illustrate Rossetti’s profound understanding of the human condition, making her poetry resonate with timeless relevance.

References

• Rossetti, Christina. "Remember." In *The Complete Poems of Christina Rossetti*, edited by R. W. Crump.
• Rossetti, Christina. "A Birthday." In *The Complete Poems of Christina Rossetti*, edited by R. W. Crump.
• Rossetti, Christina. "Amor Mundi." In *The Complete Poems of Christina Rossetti*, edited by R. W. Crump.