Evelina Borvanova
English 11
18 December 2018
Mr. Barazzuol

Analysis of “Alone”

The poem “Alone” by Edgar Allan Poe, is a lyric poem which explores the flashbacks of an adult narrator reflecting on his life. The speaker begins with explaining how he had very different passions and views as a child, compared to everyone else. He has experienced great sorrow and hardship and even though he is surrounded by such beauty he cannot appreciate it. A suitable thematic statement would be, “Individuals who lack love and security as a child may never truly obtain happiness in their adulthood.” This thematic statement is suitable because it demonstrates the effect that a person’s past may have on their future. In addition, Edgar Allan Poe utilizes a wide variety of poetic devices that contribute to the overall effect of the poem. This includes the use of visual imagery in the line, “In its autumn tint of gold” (16). This provides the reader with a powerful and comforting scenic picture of a warm autumn afternoon. He also utilizes a metaphor in lines nine and ten, saying, “Then-in my childhood, in the dawn / Of a most stormy life” (9-10). This provides a direct comparison between a storm and his early childhood, showcasing the struggles that he has had to endure, beginning from a very young age. Finally, in the last line the speaker mentions, “Of a demon in my view” (22). This is a symbol for the speaker’s unique perspective on the world. Although he is surrounded by beauty, he can’t help but focus on the negative experiences that define his life. This poem is significant because it relates to individuals who may feel isolated, to show them that they are not alone. It also showcases the difficulties that one may have to overcome, in hopes of eventually finding happiness.