The Second Coming and Things fall apart summary

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

THE SECOND COMING

•  Overview
•  Historical and Political Background
• Summary of "The Second Coming"

Overview

W.B. Yeats is considered a great literary historian, whose writings possess enduring significance and deep understanding. On June 13, 1865, in Dublin, Ireland, William Butler Yeats was born. He would go on to become one of the most renowned poets of the 20th century. In addition to being a poet, Yeats also wrote plays, essays, and served as an inspiration for the Irish Literary Revival.

Yeats was highly aware of the cultural and political climate of his day, having lived during a time of significant social and political upheaval. His poetic style was influenced by his study of Irish mythology and folklore as well as his close observation of contemporary conditions. This made him a knowledgeable critic on the intricate details of human nature.

"The Second Coming" is one of Yeats's best-known pieces, capturing the political climate of the time it was composed, out of his huge career. Published in 1920, the poem captures the mood of instability that pervaded the early 20th century as well as the aftermath of World War I and the Irish War of Independence. Understanding the historical and cultural context that acted as a testing ground for Yeats' poetic vision is essential to understanding "The Second Coming's" depth and visionary quality.

Historical and Political Background

In order to fully understand W.B. Yeats' "The Second Coming," one must examine the complex historical and political fabric of the early 20th century. With the effects of World War I still looming large over many countries and communities, this was a time of unparalleled worldwide unrest.

The post-war years were marked by a feeling of disappointment and disaster. Significant changes occurred to the geopolitical landscape, and the conflict had an impact on politics, economy, and national psyche. As demonstrated by Ireland's struggle for independence from British authority during the Irish War of Independence (1919–1921), the desire for national identity and self-determination pushed independence movements.

With the world at war and power structures changing, W.B. Yeats found inspiration for his poems in this environment. Yeats had a strong connection to the political and cultural currents of his native Ireland because he was born and bred there. He was involved in the cultural revival movement, which aimed to recover Ireland's legacy through literature and folklore, and he was an outspoken advocate of Irish independence.

Following these revolutionary events, "The Second Coming" was written, expressing the spirit of a world in transition. The poem is a reflection of the poet's struggle with the disorder and uncertainty of the time, using political and historical elements to create a story that goes beyond its local setting.

Yeats' involvement with the Irish independence movement and his greater understanding of geopolitical changes throughout the world are evident in the poetry of "The Second Coming." In addition to serving as a mirror reflecting the broken world that rose from the ashes of conflict, the poem becomes an outlet for the poet's prophetic vision amid the socio-political conflict of the moment.

Yeats' worldview was affected by political and historical currents, and understanding these currents helps us better understand the numerous meanings found in "The Second Coming." In addition to reflecting its era, the poem evolves into a timeless investigation of history's cyclical character and the never-ending search for regeneration in the midst of catastrophe. 

Summary of "The Second Coming"

W.B. Yeats' poem "The Second Coming" is a profound and enigmatic work that reflects the turbulent historical context of the early 20th century while exploring timeless themes of chaos, transformation, and the cyclical nature of history. Published in 1920 amidst the aftermath of World War I and the Irish War of Independence, the poem presents a visionary perspective on the state of the world and foretells an impending transformative event.

The poem begins with the iconic lines, "Turning and turning in the widening gyre / The falcon cannot hear the falconer." This opening metaphor introduces the concept of a widening gyre, a spiral or vortex, representing the increasing chaos and disconnection in the world. The falcon, symbolic of order and control, is losing touch with its falconer, signifying the breakdown of traditional authority and values. Yeats then introduces a series of vivid and evocative images that contribute to the apocalyptic tone of the poem. Describing a "blood-dimmed tide" and "ceremony of innocence drowned," he captures the horrors of war and the loss of innocence in a world marred by violence and upheaval. The poet's use of visceral language conveys the intensity of the chaos, painting a bleak picture of a society spiraling out of control. The phrase "Things fall apart; the center cannot hold" encapsulates the central theme of the poem. The traditional structures and institutions that once provided stability and order are crumbling, unable to withstand the forces of disorder and anarchy. Yeats' choice of words emphasizes the inevitability of this collapse, creating a sense of impending doom. The poem takes a prophetic turn as Yeats introduces the idea of a "rough beast" slouching towards Bethlehem to be born. This mysterious and ominous creature is a symbol of a malevolent force or figure that will emerge in the wake of the societal breakdown. The mention of Bethlehem adds a religious dimension, suggesting that this force may disrupt established religious norms or beliefs.

The term "Second Coming" in the poem's title refers to a transformative event similar to the biblical apocalypse. However, Yeats presents a unique interpretation, suggesting that the anticipated arrival is not a benevolent messiah but something more sinister. The poet seems to be grappling with the idea that, in times of upheaval, what emerges may not be a positive force for renewal but rather a destructive and chaotic one. "The Second Coming" concludes with the famous lines: "And what rough beast, its hour come round at last, / Slouches towards Bethlehem to be born?" These lines leave the reader with a sense of foreboding uncertainty, emphasizing the inevitability of change and the unknown nature of the force that will reshape the world.

In summary, "The Second Coming" is a complex and multi-layered poem that captures the zeitgeist of its time while offering a timeless meditation on the cyclical nature of history and the unpredictable forces that shape human destiny. Yeats' masterful use of symbolism, vivid imagery, and prophetic language contributes to the enduring impact of this poetic masterpiece.