Respond in a paragraph. Answer is written in complete sentences. (4 pts) Compare the poems by Szymborska and Milosz read over the course of this unit. All are important twentieth century writers addressing a similar theme: death. Which poets address it in terms of the times they live in (and its threat of fascism) and which address it in a more personal way? Characterize each poet’s treatment of this theme, citing evidence from the poems.
3 answers
Both Szymborska and Milosz, as important twentieth century writers, address the theme of death, but each approaches it in a distinct way. Milosz's poems, such as "Security" and "A Song on the End of the World," address death in terms of the times they live in, specifically the threat of fascism. In "Security," Milosz explores the fear and uncertainty that arise from living in a world overshadowed by political oppression and violence. He questions the meaning of security in such a context and presents death as an ever-looming presence. Similarly, in "A Song on the End of the World," Milosz portrays the imminent destruction caused by war and fascism, emphasizing the collective anguish and despair. On the other hand, Szymborska's poems, like "Cat in an Empty Apartment" and "Possibilities," address death in a more personal way. In "Cat in an Empty Apartment," she poignantly depicts the grief and loss experienced by an individual after the death of a loved one. Through personifying the cat left behind, Szymborska explores the emptiness and longing that accompany death, highlighting the individual's emotional pain and vulnerability. In "Possibilities," Szymborska contemplates the inevitability of death and explores the uncertainty of what lies beyond. She addresses death as a universal human experience, invoking philosophical questions and expressing a sense of curiosity about the unknown realm beyond life. Overall, while both poets engage with the theme of death, Milosz approaches it in terms of the socio-political context, while Szymborska focuses on the personal and existential dimensions.
put this into 4-5 sentences ONLY
Szymborska and Milosz, two important twentieth century poets, address the theme of death differently. Milosz's poems like "Security" and "A Song on the End of the World" explore death in the context of the threat of fascism and political oppression during their time. Szymborska's poems, such as "Cat in an Empty Apartment" and "Possibilities," approach death from a personal and existential perspective, exploring grief, loss, and the unknown. Milosz focuses on the collective fear and despair caused by fascism, while Szymborska delves into the individual's emotional pain and curiosity about what lies beyond life.
1 answer