Who Goes With Fergus is one of Yeats transitional pieces. In this poem he may have been talking about finally letting go of his unrequited love for Maude or calling the reader's attention to give up political struggles and follow their hearts. Yeats was involved with Irish politics and often used his work to promote and critique political events as well as educate. The catalyst for most of his work came from Yeats being a proud Irishman. His work, also reflected his familial ancestry: "Yeats traced a close connection with the countryside of Ireland, and the myths and legends of the Irish people" (p.1114).
King Fergus is a historical Irish figure who becomes weary in of his role and social rule. He relinquishes his throne in search of his passion. However, the myth also tells the story of a Fergus being confused and somewhat ambivalent if he has made the right decision (Hyperborea, 2007).
The poem begins with a question; "Who will go drive with Fergus now" (Line 1). Politically, he may be asking who will be as brave as Fergus and give up the struggle of political identity. Romantically, he could possibly be referring to himself as to what should do without the love of Maude. "And pierce the deep wood's woven shade/And dance upon the level shore?" (Lines 2-3). These lines indicate a sense of personal freedom. Freedom to do follow a heart's desire. The question mark at the end of line 3 indicates some speculation of whether or not it can be done. Politically, can one remove themselves? Romantically, does he have it move on with his life? These two questions could be the subject of line 3.
"Young man, lift up your russet brow,/And lift your tender eyelids, maid" (Lines 4-5). These lines exhort confidence and awareness. In a political sense, he wants the reader to become aware of themselves, both male and female. I thought this was interesting line. It put the female and male on the equal ground. He wants both genders to start looking towards the future. In a romantic sense, Yeats could be coming out of his own darkness and realizing that there is love "after Maude". The first stanza ends with "And brood on hopes and fear no more"(Line 6). The line represents a shift, a call for action. Let go of the old inhabited ways and enter into a new realm. Possibly a realm of passion and love.
The second stanza is also froth with chimes of new possibilities: "And no more turn aside and brood/ Upon love's bitter mystery;" (Lines 7-8). The indication that there is no need for worry about the matters of life is present. Also the indication that one must let go the mysteries of love.
King Fergus is a historical Irish figure who becomes weary in of his role and social rule. He relinquishes his throne in search of his passion. However, the myth also tells the story of a Fergus being confused and somewhat ambivalent if he has made the right decision (Hyperborea, 2007).
The poem begins with a question; "Who will go drive with Fergus now" (Line 1). Politically, he may be asking who will be as brave as Fergus and give up the struggle of political identity. Romantically, he could possibly be referring to himself as to what should do without the love of Maude. "And pierce the deep wood's woven shade/And dance upon the level shore?" (Lines 2-3). These lines indicate a sense of personal freedom. Freedom to do follow a heart's desire. The question mark at the end of line 3 indicates some speculation of whether or not it can be done. Politically, can one remove themselves? Romantically, does he have it move on with his life? These two questions could be the subject of line 3.
"Young man, lift up your russet brow,/And lift your tender eyelids, maid" (Lines 4-5). These lines exhort confidence and awareness. In a political sense, he wants the reader to become aware of themselves, both male and female. I thought this was interesting line. It put the female and male on the equal ground. He wants both genders to start looking towards the future. In a romantic sense, Yeats could be coming out of his own darkness and realizing that there is love "after Maude". The first stanza ends with "And brood on hopes and fear no more"(Line 6). The line represents a shift, a call for action. Let go of the old inhabited ways and enter into a new realm. Possibly a realm of passion and love.
The second stanza is also froth with chimes of new possibilities: "And no more turn aside and brood/ Upon love's bitter mystery;" (Lines 7-8). The indication that there is no need for worry about the matters of life is present. Also the indication that one must let go the mysteries of love.
"For Fergus rules the brazen cars,
And rules the shadows of the wood,
And the whist breast of the dime sea,
And all dishevelled wandering stars" (Lines 9-12).
The last lines of the stanza depict what courage (named Fergus) can do. It is within everyone to do what is in their heart. Once it is opened and utilized, it rules everything. It conducts the mortal soul. It can even clear away any misconceptions. Yeats' courage to let go of his feelings and move on from being "dishevelled" is also an indication of Yeats' romantic ideas being subdued.
The courage to love again after a failed marriage or relationship is not an easy feat for any gender. This poem not only renders romantic transition, but evokes passion. Passion to do what is in one's heart. I can relate to this poem. I've always done what I HAD to do. Most of my life was spent raising my son and doing what was necessary for our survival. I never tapped into my passion, my zest, zeal or the "thing" that makes me "tick". I consider this stage of my life (being a parent to an adult child and grandmother) the second stage of my life. I'm venturing into things that I might like or have always wanted to try. I try to keep fear out of the picture in order to pursue my passions.
Denise,
ReplyDeleteInteresting and effective explication and discussion of Yeats's early poem, with insightful analysis of the text. Good work!