How do "A Psalm of Life" and "Auspex" differ in how they describe the concept of time?

Question

“Psalm” suggests that the passage of time cannot defeat the soul, while “Auspex” indicates that it can.
The theme of “Psalm” reflects joy in time’s passing, while “Auspex” shows gloomy acceptance of it.
“Psalm” does not reflect concern about time’s passage, while “Auspex” displays anxiety about it.
While “Psalm” disregards time’s passing, while “Auspex” suggests that humans are oppressed by time.

Answer 1

“A Psalm of Life” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and “Auspex” by the same author differ significantly in their portrayal of time and its impact on the human spirit.

1. Perspective on the Soul vs. Time: In “A Psalm of Life,” time is seen as something that, while finite, cannot suppress the vitality of the human spirit. It conveys an optimistic view that emphasizes action and living life fully, suggesting that the soul's achievements and experiences transcend the mere passage of time. In contrast, “Auspex” presents a more somber view, acknowledging the inevitability of time's passage and its effects, leading to a sense of loss and resignation about life's fleeting nature.

2. Tone and Emotion: The tone of “A Psalm of Life” reflects joy and a proactive attitude towards life, encouraging individuals to make the most of their time. It celebrates the potential for growth and accomplishment within the constraints of time. Conversely, “Auspex” carries a more melancholic tone, expressing anxiety and a recognition of the burdens posed by time. It suggests that as time moves on, it takes with it opportunities and vitality, leading to a more passive and subdued acceptance of life's transience.

3. Concerns About Time's Passage: The concerns in “A Psalm of Life” are directed towards making meaningful use of time, rather than fearing it. The poem encourages readers to take action and live purposefully. On the other hand, “Auspex” highlights the anxiety and oppression that can stem from the awareness of time slipping away, indicating a consciousness of the finite nature of life that affects one's emotional well-being.

4. Engagement with Time: Ultimately, “A Psalm of Life” engages with time as an impetus for living fully, while “Auspex” reflects a struggle against the relentless march of time, suggesting that it weighs heavily on the human experience.

In summary, while “A Psalm of Life” embraces the idea of making the most of the present and celebrating life, “Auspex” grapples with the idea that time's passage can lead to disappointment and a sense of loss, portraying a more oppressive view of time's impact on the individual.

Answer 2

Read the first stanza of "Auspex."

My heart, I cannot still it,
Nest that had song-birds in it;
And when the last shall go,
The dreary days to fill it,
Instead of lark or linnet,
Shall whirl dead leaves and snow.

The speaker compares his heart to an empty nest in order to
emphasize the fact that his love has left.
describe a physical feeling he is experiencing.
illustrate the positive qualities of his love.
explain the types of birds that he favors.

Answer 3

In the first stanza of "Auspex," the speaker compares his heart to an empty nest primarily to emphasize the fact that his love has left. The imagery of the empty nest, once inhabited by song-birds, conveys a profound sense of loss and emptiness now that the source of joy and vitality (the love or the beloved) is no longer present. The transformation from the lively, song-filled nest to one that will only be filled with "dead leaves and snow" highlights the speaker's sorrow and longing for the past, underscoring the emotional void left by the absence of love.

Answer 4

What do the stanzas in "A Psalm of Life" have in common?
They explain the different parts of a thing.
They show stages in a thought process.
They show the events of a narrative.
They display different sides of a problem.

Answer 5

The stanzas in "A Psalm of Life" primarily show stages in a thought process. Each stanza builds upon the previous one, advancing the speaker's reflections on life, purpose, and the human experience. The poem progresses from the assertion that life should be lived actively and meaningfully to the exhortation to aspire, act, and leave a lasting impact, ultimately culminating in a message of hope and perseverance. This structured development illustrates the speaker's evolving understanding of time and the importance of making the most of one's life.

Answer 6

Which best describes the tone shared by "A Psalm of Life" and "Auspex"?
mournful
energetic
serious
regretful

Answer 7

The tone shared by "A Psalm of Life" and "Auspex" can best be described as serious. Both poems explore profound themes related to life, time, love, and loss. While "A Psalm of Life" conveys a serious and determined message about living purposefully and meaningfully in the face of time's passage, "Auspex" adopts a serious tone as it reflects on sorrow and the emptiness that follows the loss of love. Both poems engage with significant life experiences and emotions, which contributes to their serious overall tone.