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Question: analyse the poem a day in autumn by R.S Thomas (It will not always be like this, The air windless, a few last Leaves adding their decoration To the trees’ shoulders, braiding the cuffs Of the boughs with gold; a bird preening In the lawn’s mirror. Having looked up From the day’s chores, pause a minute, Let the mind take its photograph Of the bright scene, something to wear Against the heart in the long cold.) by looking at themes
"A Day in Autumn" by R.S. Thomas is a beautiful ode to the fleeting, ephemeral nature of autumn and its symbolism in the cycle of life. Through the lens of the poem, Thomas encourages readers to appreciate and find solace in the transient beauty that surrounds them. The poem's central themes include the passage of time, the impermanence of life, and finding solace in the beauty of the present moment. 1. Passage of Time: In "A Day in Autumn," the recurring theme of the passage of time is evident in the phrases "It will not always be like this" and "a few last leaves." These statements underscore the idea that the beauty of autumn, and by extension, life in general, is transitory, reminding readers that everything is constantly changing and evolving. 2. Impermanence of Life: Thomas skilfully conveys the theme of the impermanence of life, using the landscape of autumn as a symbol for the fleeting nature of human existence. By describing autumn with the "trees' shoulders" and "the boughs with gold," he personifies the season, implying that just as humans experience the different stages of life, so too do the natural elements. Additionally, the poet acknowledges that just as the autumn will inevitably fade away into winter, life too will have its moments of warmth and brilliance followed by an inevitable end. 3. Finding Solace in The Present Moment: The poem encourages readers to acknowledge and appreciate the beauty of the present moment, which serves as a counterbalance to the transient nature of life. The phrase "having looked up from the day's chores, pause a minute" emphasizes the need to be present in the moment and enjoy the fleeting pleasures of life while they last. By asking the reader to let their mind "take its photograph," Thomas emphasizes the importance of creating lasting internal memories that can serve as a source of comfort and solace during difficult times. In conclusion, "A Day in Autumn" by R.S. Thomas is a heartfelt poem that implores readers to appreciate the passing beauty of life and the world around them. Through the vivid imagery of autumn and the poem's predominant themes—passage of time, life's impermanence, and finding solace in the present moment—Thomas reminds the reader to cherish each stage in the cycle of life and find comfort in the enduring memories of these ephemeral moments.
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