Dylan Thomas In My Craft Or Sullen Art
Dylan Thomas was one of the most celebrated poets of the 20th century. He was born in Swansea, Wales in 1914 and lived a life full of creativity and passion. His poetry was known for its lyrical beauty and vivid imagery, and he was widely regarded as a master of the English language.
Background
Thomas grew up in a family of modest means, and he was the only son of a schoolteacher and an aspiring poet. He was a precocious child who began writing poetry at an early age, and he was educated at the Swansea Grammar School. Despite his early talent, Thomas struggled to find his place in the world, and he spent many years working odd jobs and struggling to make ends meet.
The Poem
In My Craft Or Sullen Art is one of Thomas's most famous poems. It was first published in 1946, and it has since become a staple of English literature. The poem is a meditation on the act of writing, and it explores the relationship between the poet and his craft.
The poem opens with the lines, "In my craft or sullen art/ Exercised in the still night/ When only the moon rages/ And the lovers lie abed". These lines set the tone for the poem, which is contemplative and introspective. The poet is alone in the night, and he is engaged in the act of writing. The moon is a symbol of inspiration, and it is the only source of light in the darkness.
The Theme
The theme of the poem is the relationship between the poet and his craft. Thomas suggests that writing is a difficult and often painful process, but it is also a deeply rewarding one. The poet is engaged in a struggle with his art, and he must persevere through the darkness in order to achieve his goals.
The poem also explores the idea of artistic inspiration. Thomas suggests that inspiration is a mysterious and elusive force, and that it can only be found in the stillness of the night. The moon is a symbol of this inspiration, and it is the source of the poet's creative power.
The Language
Thomas's language in the poem is rich and evocative. He uses a variety of poetic techniques, including alliteration, assonance, and metaphor, to create a vivid and memorable image of the poet at work. The poem is also notable for its use of repetition, which reinforces the idea of the poet's struggle with his craft.
The Legacy
In My Craft Or Sullen Art remains one of Dylan Thomas's most enduring works. It has been widely anthologized and studied, and it continues to inspire poets and writers today. Thomas's legacy as a poet and artist is secure, and his contribution to the English language is immeasurable.
The Conclusion
In My Craft Or Sullen Art is a powerful meditation on the act of writing. It explores the relationship between the poet and his craft, and it suggests that writing is a difficult and often painful process. Thomas's language is rich and evocative, and his use of repetition reinforces the idea of the poet's struggle with his art. The poem remains a testament to Thomas's enduring legacy as a poet and artist, and it continues to inspire readers and writers today.
