"In Memoriam" and "Adonais": Two Immortal Elegy in English Literature

Elegies of Immortality: Exploring Mortality, Loss, and Artistic Transcendence in Tennyson's 'In Memoriam' and Shelley's 'Adonais'

In the realm of English literature, elegies have played a significant role in commemorating the departed and expressing profound grief. Among the countless elegies that have graced the literary landscape, two hold a special place—Tennyson's "In Memoriam" and Shelley's "Adonais." These remarkable works not only pay tribute to beloved individuals but also explore themes of mortality, loss, and the transcendent power of art. This essay delves into the profound impact and enduring legacy of "In Memoriam" and "Adonais" in the realm of English literature.

In Memoriam": Tennyson's Elegy of Grief and Faith

"In Memoriam", Lord Tennyson’s most acclaimed work, was begun in 1833 and completed in 1850. It was written in memory of Arthur Henry Hallam, a young man of great promise and an intimate friend of Tennyson who died at a very early age.

The poem which  serves as a poignant reflection of Tennyson's personal journey through grief and mourning, explores the complex emotions and stages of grief that Tennyson experienced following Hallam's untimely death. Through his lyrical and introspective verses, Tennyson delves into the depths of sorrow, grappling with the existential questions that arise in the face of loss. He contemplates the meaning of life, the nature of love, and the struggle for faith amidst the overwhelming presence of mortality.

The Transformative Journey of Grief: "In Memoriam"

"In Memoriam" is not so much a single elegy but as a series of poems written at different times.  One of the notable stylistic features of "In Memoriam" is its cyclical structure. The poem consists of 133 cantos, each capturing a different moment or emotion in Tennyson's mourning process. This cyclical nature mirrors the ebb and flow of grief, as Tennyson oscillates between despair and hope, darkness and light. These were inspired by the changing moods of the author’s regret for his friend. The series describe “the way of the soul,” as Tennyson Sometimes called it in the presence of great sorrow. It shows the gradual transformation of the regret fell by the living for the dead and of the longing for the bodily presence in to a sense of spiritual contact and possession. The poem's lyrical language and musicality further enhance its emotional impact, evoking a sense of melancholy beauty that resonates with readers.

Faith and Love: Illuminating Life's Mysteries

Beyond its personal introspection, "In Memoriam" also encompasses broader reflections on love, nature, and God. Tennyson contemplates the power of love to endure even in the face of death and finds solace in the beauty of the natural world. He also wrestles with questions of faith, searching for meaning and reassurance in the divine order of the universe. It widens out into a great love of God and humanity: “We have but faith, we can not know; for knowledge is of things we see; And yet we know it comes from thee: a beam in darkness; let it grow.”

"In Memoriam": Grief, Hope, and Tennyson's Ascendancy

The scattered laments ultimately end in a marriage song that celebrates the wedding of his sister. The hope is expressed that an off-spring of the union will be born to be a ‘closure link’ between men of the present and those of the future. Hallam has thus become a ‘noble type’ who came to the earth prematurely and providing a foretaste of the future humanity. The poem was written in four-foot iambic quatrains, rhyming abba. Tennyson deftly used its metrical resources to express both moods of grief and serenity. With the publication of "In Memoriam" Tennyson’s status as the poet of his age was assured and he was appointed the poet-laureate.  

"In Memoriam": A Timeless Elegy of Solace and Influence

The literary significance of "In Memoriam" cannot be overstated. It is widely regarded as one of the greatest elegies in English literature, revered for its emotional depth and introspective exploration of grief. The poem has offered solace and consolation to countless readers who have experienced loss, providing a cathartic outlet for their own feelings of sorrow.

Moreover, "In Memoriam" has had a lasting impact on the genre of elegiac poetry. Its influence can be seen in the works of subsequent poets, such as T.S. Eliot, who drew inspiration from Tennyson's introspective and lyrical approach to elegy. The themes and motifs explored in "In Memoriam" continue to resonate with readers, reaffirming the enduring power of Tennyson's elegy in the realm of English literature.

"Adonais": Transient Life, Poetic Immortality

"Adonais", Shelley’s elegy on the death of Keats, has an emotional trust and firmness of expression that makes its images memorable. "Adonais" explores the transient nature of life and the enduring power of poetic immortality. Shelley mourns the untimely death of Keats and contemplates the fragility of human existence. Through his elegy, he criticizes the harsh treatment Keats faced during his lifetime from literary circles, emphasizing the injustice and ignorance that often befall talented artists. Shelley's elegy, therefore, not only mourns Keats but also serves as a scathing critique of the society that failed to appreciate his genius.

Transcending Mortality: Shelley's Elegiac Vision

The poem blends elegiac elements with profound philosophical musings on art and the nature of existence. Shelley contemplates the role of the poet and the transformative power of their creations. He sees poetry as a vessel that can transcend mortality, immortalizing the memory and spirit of the departed. Through vivid imagery and lyrical language, Shelley evokes a sense of deep sorrow and admiration, capturing the essence of Keats' poetic legacy.

"Adonais": Shelley's Immortal Elegy Transcending Time

The poem serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Keats and highlights the importance of recognizing and cherishing artistic genius. "Adonais" showcases the profound impact that elegiac poetry can have, reminding readers of the emotional depth and transformative power that can be achieved through the written word. Shelley's elegy stands as a testament to the enduring power of poetry to immortalize and honor the memory of those who have left an indelible mark on the literary landscape. "Adonais" holds immense literary significance and is considered a masterpiece of elegiac poetry. It represents a milestone in Shelley's career, showcasing his mastery of poetic expression and his ability to convey complex emotions through verse. The passionate expression of grief and admiration in "Adonais" has inspired generations of poets, who have been moved by Shelley's poignant elegy and its exploration of the power of art to transcend time and preserve the memory of the departed.

Shelley's Lyrical Brilliance: Rediscovering a Romantic Virtuoso

 But it is often the sheer lyrical quality of a Shelley ‘singing hymns unbidden’ and ‘in profuse strains of ‘unpremeditated art’ that strikes the ordinary reader. "To the Skylark" has a rapturous melody, and the emotional intensity of Ode to the west wind is simply moving. On the other hand there is clarity and economy in the reflective verse of the Lines Written among the Euganean Hills. Shelley’s lyrical powers and romantic biography often obscured Shelley’s virtuosity as a poet: his intellectual courage and originally as well as his hatred of oppression and injustice. But he has gradually recovered his position as a major figure among the English Romantics.

Conclusion

"In Memoriam" by Tennyson and "Adonais" by Shelley are two enduring elegies that have left an indelible mark on English literature. Through their exploration of grief, mortality, and the power of art, these works transcend time and resonate with readers across generations. Both elegies exemplify the profound emotional impact that elegiac poetry can have, offering solace, contemplation, and a celebration of the human spirit even in the face of loss.

 Ardhendu De

References

1. The complete poetical works of Percy Bysshe Shelley, including materials never before printed in any edition of the poems; : Shelley, Percy Bysshe, 1792-1822 : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive. (n.d.). Internet Archive. https://archive.org/details/completepoeticalshel

2. The complete works of Alfred, lord Tennyson .. : Tennyson, Alfred Tennyson, Baron, 1809-1892 : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive. (n.d.). Internet Archive. https://archive.org/details/completeworksofa00tenn