Gerard Manley Hopkins’ “Spring” vs. John Keats’ “To Autumn”
Gerard Manley Hopkins’ Italian sonnet, “Spring” and John Keats’ ode, “To Autumn” are both similar and different in their use of literary devices. The poems’ similar titles, both seasons, are somewhat deceiving; they lead readers to believe that the poems are more similar than they actually are. “To Autumn” was written on September 19, 1819, but was not published until the following year ("To Autumn - Keats"). Hopkins’ poem, “Spring,” was written between the year 1877 and 1879 ("Gerard Manley Hopkins: An Inventory of His Collection at the Harry Ransom Center”). The authors’ purposes for writing the poems are very different. Because John Keats had a background in medical experience, he realized that he would experience a premature death. “To Autumn” is believed by many to have been …show more content…
Imagery, syntax, and alliteration are employed in both of these poems. However, these poems prove that the same devices employed in different contexts can produce very different results. Both poems cause vivid pictures to appear in the reader’s mind. The poems are both dramatic and sentimental at the same time, attributable to the carefully calculated use of syntax. They are both pleasant to listen to due to the use of alliteration. However, these literary devices contribute to their overall theme. The poem, “Spring,” explains springtime is a time for renewal, rejuvenation, and Easter. On the other hand, the poem, “To Autumn,” is less symbolic and more descriptive. In this way, “Spring” is significantly more figurative than “To Autumn.” Both poems can be enjoyed by a wide audience of people with varying levels of experience in analyzing poetry. However, “Spring” requires slightly deeper and more inquisitive thinking than “To Autumn” in order to gain a full comprehension of the intended
Gerard Manley Hopkins’ Italian sonnet, “Spring” and John Keats’ ode, “To Autumn” are both similar and different in their use of literary devices. The poems’ similar titles, both seasons, are somewhat deceiving; they lead readers to believe that the poems are more similar than they actually are. “To Autumn” was written on September 19, 1819, but was not published until the following year ("To Autumn - Keats"). Hopkins’ poem, “Spring,” was written between the year 1877 and 1879 ("Gerard Manley Hopkins: An Inventory of His Collection at the Harry Ransom Center”). The authors’ purposes for writing the poems are very different. Because John Keats had a background in medical experience, he realized that he would experience a premature death. “To Autumn” is believed by many to have been …show more content…
Imagery, syntax, and alliteration are employed in both of these poems. However, these poems prove that the same devices employed in different contexts can produce very different results. Both poems cause vivid pictures to appear in the reader’s mind. The poems are both dramatic and sentimental at the same time, attributable to the carefully calculated use of syntax. They are both pleasant to listen to due to the use of alliteration. However, these literary devices contribute to their overall theme. The poem, “Spring,” explains springtime is a time for renewal, rejuvenation, and Easter. On the other hand, the poem, “To Autumn,” is less symbolic and more descriptive. In this way, “Spring” is significantly more figurative than “To Autumn.” Both poems can be enjoyed by a wide audience of people with varying levels of experience in analyzing poetry. However, “Spring” requires slightly deeper and more inquisitive thinking than “To Autumn” in order to gain a full comprehension of the intended