The Cross of Snow: a Poem Analysis

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's poem "The Cross of Snow" is a poignant reflection on grief, loss, and enduring love. Written in memory of his late wife, Frances Appleton, the poem delves into the depths of Longfellow's sorrow and longing for his beloved. Through vivid imagery, emotional language, and a somber tone, Longfellow captures the profound impact of loss on the human heart.

The poem opens with the striking image of a cross of snow, a symbol of the enduring nature of Longfellow's grief. The snow represents the coldness and emptiness that now pervade his life in the absence of his wife. The cross, a symbol of suffering and sacrifice, serves as a reminder of the pain and anguish that Longfellow continues to endure in her absence.

Longfellow's use of imagery throughout the poem is powerful and evocative. He describes the "mountain in the background" as a "vast and vacant" presence, mirroring the vast emptiness that now fills his heart. The imagery of the "avalanche" and the "storm-wind" further emphasize the overwhelming nature of his grief, as he struggles to come to terms with his loss.

Longfellow's language in the poem is emotional and heartfelt, reflecting the depth of his love for his wife. He speaks of her as his "life's delight" and his "guiding star," highlighting the central role she played in his life. His use of phrases such as "O star of the morning" and "O star of the evening" conveys his reverence and adoration for her, as he continues to hold her memory close to his heart.

The tone of the poem is somber and melancholic, reflecting Longfellow's profound sense of loss. He speaks of the "shadow" that now hangs over his life, casting a pall of sadness and sorrow over everything he does. The repetition of the phrase "O cross of snow" throughout the poem underscores the enduring nature of his grief, as he grapples with the pain of her absence.

Longfellow's exploration of grief and loss in "The Cross of Snow" is both deeply personal and universally resonant. Through his poignant language and vivid imagery, he captures the raw emotion of losing a loved one and the enduring impact it has on the human soul. The poem serves as a powerful meditation on the nature of love, loss, and the enduring power of memory.

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's poem "The Cross of Snow" is a moving tribute to his late wife and a poignant exploration of grief and loss. Through his evocative imagery, emotional language, and somber tone, Longfellow conveys the profound impact of her absence on his life. The poem serves as a testament to the enduring power of love and memory, as Longfellow grapples with the pain of losing his beloved. "The Cross of Snow" stands as a timeless reminder of the enduring nature of grief and the power of love to transcend even the deepest sorrows.