Study Notes

"Silver" by Walter de la Mare

Walter De La Mare's poem "Silver," first published in his collection of poems titled The Listeners, is a captivating piece that explores themes of solitude and isolation. Set in the late night hours when nature is largely still, it creates a vivid image of a lonely observer standing on the edge of a forest. This person serves as an extension of the poet himself, observing with both keen attention and melancholic introspection.

In the poem, the speaker stands alone on the edge of a woodland during a moonlit night. They hear soft rustlings within the trees, which may be animals moving around or simply the wind playing tricks on their ears. The speaker contemplates these sounds, wondering if they are real creatures or merely phantoms of their imagination. The narrator ponders whether these noises are "the bred of shadows that lie in wait for me who wander here alone." This line suggests the possibility that the rustling comes from ethereal beings rather than tangible ones.

De la Mare skillfully weaves together elements of the natural world with the supernatural, creating a sense of mystery and wonderment. He uses evocative language such as "shadows that lie in wait," giving a sinister undertone to the otherwise peaceful setting. The imagery paints a picture of a solitary individual surrounded by a mysterious and potentially dangerous environment, heightening the feeling of isolation and potential danger.

However, despite this eerie atmosphere, there is also a sense of hopefulness in the poem. Even though the person feels alone and lost among the trees, there is a calm acceptance of their situation. They acknowledge their vulnerability, yet they also find strength in their independence and courage to face whatever comes next. In essence, the poem is about embracing one's solitude and finding beauty within it, even amidst the darkness and uncertainty.

Overall, "Silver" is a haunting and thought-provoking poem that explores the human condition through the lens of loneliness and the unknown. It challenges readers to confront their fears and embrace their individuality, encouraging them to appreciate the beauty found in solitude and the mysteries of life.