Construction And Representation Of Identity In Dead Poets Society And Frost’s Poetry

A journey or experience that is unexpected can lead to a renewed or fresh understanding of life. It is possible to have a profound experience by letting go of social norms. While this may result in unforeseen but wonderful revelations, it can give you a better understanding of the world. Robert Frost explores the idea of a romantic setting and an intellectual experience that can help you gain a better sense of yourself. Peter Weir’s Dead Poets Society explores the use of literature to help individuals discover their intellectual selves and a new understanding of society in an oppressive environment. Frost and Weir’s characters are shown to be willing to change their ways and adopt new perspectives that allow them to understand themselves better.

A natural or romantic setting can often be the catalyst to an unexpected and sudden journey of discovering a place, leading to a more positive self-perception. Frost’s simplicity in using heroic couplets creates a sense of tranquility in TT. “I went out to turn the lawn once after one/who cut it in the morning dew” is a perfect example of this. This resonance reinforces an individual’s preferred setting and provides a catalyst that allows for a sudden, unexpected discovery. Frost uses action verbs to bring to life the sudden discovery of the persona. “A leaping scythe-spared tongue of bloom…feel a similar spirit to mine” are examples. The persona discovers a previously unknown connection to nature through the unexpected discovery. The beauty and allure that the woods offer entices SB’s persona. But she’s torn about whether or not to surrender herself to nature. The snow symbol is used to convey this notion. “The only sound I can hear is the breeze/Of downy flakes and easy winds” in order to communicate the beauty of the natural world. He paused, even though he was in an uncomfortable location “between woods and frozen lakes/the darkest night of the year”. A person’s isolation can facilitate epiphanies which lead to unique perspectives and intricate self-discoveries. Frost’s TT uses a butterfly motif as a way to establish a connection with the persona. It also transforms their outlook and feeling of isolation. In Frost’s TT, it is the butterflies who lead the persona to flowers. Also, the couplets: “The butterfly that I had lit, /Nevertheless… a message from dawn” show a change in the attitude. From a negative perspective of isolation, one embraces loneliness as he connects with nature. DPS’s character development reveals how isolation can lead to a better understanding of oneself. Weir portrays Todd as a shy, uncomfortable character that becomes disoriented during his discovery phase when Mr Keating is forced to ask him what he sees if he closes his eyes. After discovering his ability to write poetic verses, “from t-to t’the moment we leave crying, it’ll only cover your face, as you wail & cry & scream”, he is able to gain a new perspective as a result. Mr Keating uses Robert Frost’s famous poem, “Two streets diverged into a yellow highway”, to teach the students to take their own paths and anger the traditionalists. The students can grow in character and individuality by “taking the less-travelled road” and learning to walk the way they want. Individuals discover themselves through epiphanies.

The unknown can be discovered through everyday activities and intellectual discoveries, which could lead to a better understanding of the world. Frost’s clear, present-tense language and first person narration in ‘SB” allows the listener to enjoy the wonderful nature of “The Woods are Lovely, Dark and Deep, But I Have Promises to Keep.” The ‘woods represent nature’s allure, while the promises symbolize society’s burdens. The life that Frost wishes for is beautiful and natural, primitive and dark, genuine and deep. The “dark, deep” woods represent death and the unknown of the afterlife. DPS also demonstrates what each individual can accomplish. Mr Keating’s lessons emphasize the importance of “seizing every opportunity” and encouraging the students to make the most of their time. This idea can be seen in various situations as simple activities like auditioning or calling girls are a way for people to gain intellectual insight. Through a close-up, high-angle shot of students, Mr. Keating continues revealing the importance “poetry” and “beauty, romance, and love”. He says that “these things are what keep us alive”.

In this way, the everyday reveals the unknown as a result of the consequences of giving up societal norms. The personas adopt new perspectives and outlooks to the world through romantic settings, isolation, and the unknown. This is a result of discovering their place, intellect, and themselves. The response can be influenced by Robert Frost’s The Tuft of Flowers and ‘Stopping By Woods On A Snowy Evening’, as well Peter Weirs Dead Poets Society.

Author

  • joaquincain

    Joaquin Cain is a 39 year old school teacher and blogger from the United States. He has a passion for education and is always looking for new and innovative ways to help his students learn. He is also a big believer in the power of technology and its ability to help improve education.