POEM
2. Every Morning I wake
by Dylan Thomas
Summary
"Every
Morning I Wake" is a captivating and thought-provoking extract from the
renowned play "Under the Milk Wood" by Dylan Thomas. Within this
poem, Thomas skillfully portrays a devoted individual who rises each morning
with the utmost reverence for the magnificent God. The speaker's plea for mercy
on the ordinary inhabitants living under the enchanting realm of Milk Wood
reflects a profound understanding of the divine and the interconnectedness of
all living beings.
In
this poetic prayer, the speaker invokes God's benevolence for the people of
Milk Wood, a quaint and humble hamlet nestled beneath the vast expanse of Milk
Wood. Often termed as a sunset poem or a prayer poem, it encapsulates the
essence of all prayers by acknowledging the greatness and incomparable nature
of God. The poem serves as a potent reminder that the vastness of God's
creation, the cosmos, surpasses human comprehension, and we are merely
minuscule beings in the grand design.
The
devotion and piety of the speaker are evident in their morning ritual of
awakening and directing heartfelt prayers to the divine. Although God's
physical presence may not be perceptible on Earth, the poem portrays God's
omnipresence and influence, guiding actions and shaping destinies from afar. As
the Creator of everything on Earth, God holds the power to both create and
ultimately dissolve the very fabric of existence.
Through
poignant verses, the poem delves into the ephemeral nature of human life. It
acknowledges that many individuals are born only to experience mortality and
pass away, leaving little trace of their existence behind. However, the speaker
finds solace and hope in the belief that God's blessings grant significance and
purpose to our fleeting existence. Emphasizing the transient nature of human
existence, the poem reminds us of our humble reality—merely a composition of
cartilage and collagen.
Moreover,
"Every Morning I Wake" conveys the profound faith of the speaker in
the act of praying for the well-being of all creatures. The essence of the poem
lies in its plea to the divine, highlighting the interdependence of all living
beings and the interconnectedness of the universe. The speaker, being a
believer, recognizes the inherent need for compassion and mercy, not only for
themselves but also for all beings residing under the protective embrace of
Milk Wood.
In
conclusion, Dylan Thomas's "Every Morning I Wake" is a profound and
evocative prayer poem that radiates with devotion, humility, and a deep sense
of interconnectedness with the divine and all living beings. The extract
encapsulates the human quest for meaning and purpose in the face of mortality,
seeking solace in the benevolence of God. Through its rich imagery and poignant
words, the poem reminds us of our place in the vastness of creation and the
significance of seeking mercy and compassion for all creatures. As the sun
rises each day, so does the speaker's devotion to God, providing a powerful
reminder of the eternal cycle of life and the ever-present hope for divine
grace.
Understanding the text
Answer the following questions.
a. When does the speaker pray to the Lord?
The
speaker's devoutness is evident as they engage in prayer both in the morning
and evening. Through this dual act of worship, the speaker demonstrates a
profound and unwavering connection with the divine. Morning prayers signify a
fresh start to the day, seeking guidance and blessings from the Lord to
navigate life's challenges. Evening prayers, on the other hand, express
gratitude for the day's blessings and seek protection and solace during the
night. By offering prayers at both these moments, the speaker exhibits a
continuous and dedicated relationship with the Lord, recognizing the importance
of seeking divine presence and support throughout the entirety of their daily
journey. This practice reflects their reliance on faith and a desire to remain
connected with the divine in moments of both brightness and darkness, revealing
a profound spiritual devotion that shapes their life.
b. What does the speaker pray for?
The
speaker's prayers encompass a heartfelt plea for divine benevolence,
compassion, and safeguarding towards the inhabitants of Milk Wood. Their words
reflect a genuine concern and care for the well-being of the people residing in
this humble hamlet. By invoking God's grace, the speaker seeks divine favor and
blessings to shower upon the community, acknowledging the power and mercy that
only the Almighty can bestow. The entreaty for sympathy reveals the speaker's
empathy and understanding of the challenges and struggles faced by the
residents of Milk Wood. They implore God to extend his compassionate hand,
offering solace and comfort to those in distress and sorrow. This prayer
showcases the speaker's humility and acknowledgment of their own limitations,
recognizing that only God's infinite compassion can truly address the needs of
the community.
c. Who are the ‘poor creatures’? Why does the speaker call them
‘poor creatures’?
In
the prayer, the term "poor creatures" encompasses all innocent beings
on Earth. Specifically referring to the residents of Milk Wood as "poor
creatures" emphasizes their vulnerability and mortality, described as
"bone and flesh" with an inevitable destiny of death. The term
"poor animals" isn't derogatory but serves to remind us of our shared
mortality and humanity. The speaker's plea for grace, sympathy, and protection
is rooted in this recognition, seeking divine compassion for the inhabitants of
Milk Wood as they face the universal reality of life's fragility and
impermanence.
d. What does Milk Wood sound like? A type of wood or a place?
Why?
Correct,
in English grammar, a single proper noun used to refer to a specific place,
like "Milk Wood," does not require an article such as "a"
or "an." Proper nouns are capitalized and used to name a particular
person, place, or thing. In this case, "Milk Wood" is being treated
as a specific location or hamlet, and as such, no article is needed before it.
The absence of an article indicates that it is a unique and identifiable place,
distinguishing it from a general or common noun.
e. Why do the inhabitants of Milk Wood bow to the setting sun
‘but just for now’?
In
the enchanting realm of Milk Wood, its residents bid adieu to the setting sun
with a humble bow, acknowledging the end of the day's journey. As the sun dips
below the horizon, they anticipate its radiant return the following morning.
Their hopeful hearts are filled with gratitude towards God for the blessings
bestowed upon them and the life-giving warmth of the Sun. This daily ritual of
saying farewell to the setting sun and welcoming its rise again is a testament
to their faith and dependence on both the divine and nature. In this simple act,
they find reassurance and hope for the continuity of life, guided by the
benevolence of God and the Sun's nurturing light.
Reference to the context
a. Discuss “Every Morning When I Wake” as a prayer to the God.
Dylan
Thomas's "Every Morning When I Wake" is indeed a powerful prayer poem
that beautifully captures the essence of seeking divine guidance and blessings
for all living beings. The speaker's heartfelt plea to God is evident in the
lines, "Dear Lord, a small prayer I make / O please do keep Thy loving eye
/ on all poor creatures born to die." Through this prayer, the speaker
humbly implores the Almighty to extend his benevolent gaze and compassion
towards every aspect of creation, encompassing not only humans but also animals
and all living beings.
The
use of the word "poor" emphasizes the vulnerability and mortality
inherent in all living creatures, acknowledging the shared destiny of mortality
that unites every form of life. By recognizing the transient nature of
existence, the speaker's prayer becomes an inclusive plea for divine care and
blessings to be showered upon all beings, regardless of their nature or
species.
In
these lines, the speaker's sincerity and devotion shine through as they express
the desire for God's watchful and loving presence over creation. The act of
praying itself becomes a profound expression of the speaker's belief in the
interconnectedness of all living things and their reliance on divine grace for
the well-being and purpose of life.
Through
this prayer poem, Dylan Thomas captures the universal human yearning for divine
guidance and protection, extending this plea to encompass the welfare of all
living creatures. It serves as a timeless reminder of the significance of
prayer and the humility in recognizing our shared vulnerability, seeking solace
and blessings from a higher power that encompasses the entire cosmos.
b. Why does the speaker make a prayer to the God, but not to a
king, a billionaire or a scientist?
The
speaker's profound understanding of God's supremacy is evident in their prayer,
recognizing that no one can surpass the Almighty. God is the ultimate entity,
the creator of all existence, and the focal point of all religious beliefs.
Through this prayer, the speaker acknowledges God's attributes of power,
knowledge, and actuality, which far surpass any human capabilities.
The
speaker emphasizes that kings, scientists, and millionaires owe their positions
and achievements to God's grace. Despite their influence and wealth, they
cannot offer the same protection and guidance as the divine. God's existence is
holy and sacred, as He is the creator who made and rescues us. The prayer
reflects the speaker's profound love, trust, and reliance on God, who leads us
on the righteous path.
The
prayer emphasizes the authority God holds over everyone and everything,
regardless of their worldly status. No matter how mighty, wealthy, or
knowledgeable humans may be, they pale in comparison to the grandeur of God.
Thus, worship becomes a means to seek God's forgiveness and blessings.
The
prayer serves as a humbling reminder of human mortality and transience. Kings,
millionaires, and scientists are all mortal beings composed of flesh and bone,
destined to face mortality. Recognizing this reality, the speaker turns to
prayer as a way to connect with the eternal and seek divine guidance and
salvation.
In
essence, the speaker's prayer showcases a profound understanding of God's
infinite greatness and human limitations. It highlights the universal need for
seeking divine guidance, forgiveness, and benefits, regardless of one's worldly
status. The prayer becomes an expression of humility, love, and trust in the
divine, seeking solace and purpose in the face of human mortality and the
transient nature of human achievements.
c. How does the poet highlight the magnificence of the God?
In
this prayerful poem, the poet beautifully highlights the profound greatness of
God. By emphasizing God's constant vigilance and care over all of creation,
from birth to death, the speaker acknowledges that no being can surpass or
compare to the Almighty. God is portrayed as the ultimate entity, the source of
all existence, and the central focus of all religious belief.
The
poem accentuates God's three essential attributes: power, knowledge, and
actuality, signifying the divine's omnipotence, omniscience, and eternal
nature. Through this acknowledgment, the speaker offers a heartfelt prayer to
the divine, recognizing God's supreme authority and wisdom.
Furthermore,
the poem emphasizes that God serves as a guardian, shielding humanity from the
unknown and guiding them on a righteous path. Only God truly comprehends and
understands what is in the best interest of each individual, transcending human
understanding and foresight.
The
poem's verses resonate with a profound sense of reverence and reliance on God's
benevolence, underscoring the need to seek His divine guidance, protection, and
care. The portrayal of God as the all-knowing and all-powerful protector
reinforces the universal belief in His providence and compassion towards all
beings.
In
conclusion, the poem glorifies God's greatness by presenting Him as the
ultimate caretaker of creation. It serves as a heartfelt prayer, acknowledging
God's unparalleled attributes and His role as the sole protector and guide for
humanity. By highlighting God's watchful eye and understanding of our best
interests, the poet fosters a deep sense of humility and reliance on the
divine, seeking solace and purpose in God's unfathomable greatness.
d. How does the rhyme scheme of the poem reinforce its message?
The
poem's consistent use of the AABB rhyme scheme creates a sense of organized
structure and musicality. This pattern, with every second line rhyming with the
previous one, adds a pleasant and rhythmic quality, making the poem akin to a
soothing song or chant. The repetitive rhymes serve to enhance the poem's
message and appeal to the reader or listener.
The
speaker's portrayal of themselves as a helpless child in the eyes of God
conveys a profound sense of humility and vulnerability. This childlike quality
is further accentuated by the poem's austere design, evoking a sense of
innocence and purity in the plea to the divine.
The
choice of the AABB rhyme scheme is particularly apt for a prayer poem, as it
fosters a sincere and heartfelt tone, allowing the speaker to make a pure plea
to God. The repetition of rhymes also reinforces the spiritual aspect, as many
prayer poems throughout history have utilized this pattern to convey devotion
and reverence to the divine.
In
conclusion, the deliberate use of the AABB rhyme scheme, coupled with the
portrayal of the speaker as a humble child, creates an organized and melodious
poem that serves as a sincere and heartfelt prayer to God, capturing a sense of
childlike faith and trust in the divine.
Reference beyond the text
a. Does the God exist? Give your opinion.
The
author expresses a strong belief in God and a conviction that God's presence is
within every individual. They advise against rushing in the search for God, as
the divine is already within us. The author's faith in God is rooted in
personal experiences of receiving what they asked for, reinforcing their belief
in God's benevolence.
The
argument put forth is that although we cannot physically see God, His influence
can be witnessed in the events of daily life. The existence of God is compared
to radiation, something that is not visible but undoubtedly present. The author
points out that miracles and unexplainable occurrences serve as evidence of
God's existence.
The
mention of sixth-sense users suggests that some people perceive a higher power
beyond the limitations of the five physical senses. Despite debates about God's
existence, the author remains steadfast in their belief, emphasizing that the
physical world isn't the sole basis for recognizing the divine. The existence
of God is a belief held by many individuals across different cultures and
religions.
In
conclusion, my faith in God is based on personal experiences, the belief in the
presence of a higher power, and the recognition of God's influence in daily
life. My perspective reflects a deep conviction in the existence of God, beyond
what can be perceived by the senses, reaffirming my unwavering theistic
beliefs.
b. In his Epistle to the author of the book, The Three Impostors
(1768), Voltaire says, “Even if the God didn’t exist, it would be
necessary to invent him.” Write an essay highlighting the importance of
the God in the society.
The
Importance of The God in the Society
The
notion that civilized societies are built on the foundation of decent people is
a compelling premise. Whether or not God exists, the idea of an ideal version
of His existence becomes essential in shaping moral values and guiding human
conduct. Many who believe in an afterlife and the existence of souls also
believe in God, suggesting that He plays a crucial role in fostering a good
society. If God were absent, it would be imperative to create an ideal
representation of Him to maintain the principles that lead to a harmonious and
organized world.
Voltaire's
idea in "The Three Imposters" echoes the sentiment that even if God
were not real, the concept of a higher power would still need to be fabricated
to instill happiness and a sense of order in society. The belief in a supremely
intelligent, powerful, and guiding force behind nature's rules influences
people of all cultures, fostering a sense of faith and moral guidance.
God's
role in maintaining the planet's natural splendor and instructing individuals
to relinquish negative emotions such as vengeance, greed, and passion
contributes to the development of a civilized society. The fear of God's
judgment acts as a deterrent against committing crimes, promoting order and
moral conduct. The idea of God representing the good aspects of society and
evil symbolizing the bad aspects creates a sense of balance and direction in
human behavior.
Moreover,
the belief in an afterlife and eternal consequences for one's actions
encourages repentance and the development of moral qualities such as humanity,
kindness, love, and compassion. The fear of God prevents people from engaging
in wicked deeds and guides them towards living in harmony and peace with each
other.
In
conclusion, the idea of God's existence, whether tangible or idealized, plays a
fundamental role in shaping a civilized society. The belief in a higher power
instills moral values, fear of consequences, and a sense of order that fosters
peace, harmony, and compassionate behavior among individuals. While the
existence of God is a matter of philosophical and theological debate, its
influence on human conduct and the establishment of a well-functioning society
is undeniable.
Best of Luck
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