Course Code: ENG607

Course Title: CONTEMPORARY PROSE AND POETRY

Unit IV
•Ted Hughes :
•‘ The Hawk in The Rain’
•‘ Birthday Letters’
Historical Background
•‘The Hawk in the Rain’ was the titular poem in the
collection ‘The Hawk in the Rain’, published in
1957, and dedicated to his first wife, Sylvia Plath.
•It won the Galbraith Prize, sold to immediate
acclaim from critics, and contains most of his
animal poems.
‘The Hawk in the Rain’
• In his youth, Hughes was an avid hunter and outdoorsman, and
although that tempered as he got older, his fascination with animals
never waned.
• He wrote, “My interest in animals began when I began. My memory
goes back pretty clearly to my third year and by then I had so many
of the toy lead animals you could buy in shops that they went right
around our flat-topped fore place fender nose to tail”.
• Known alternatively as the poet of the ‘will to live’ and ‘terror’s
ambassador’, Ted Hughes’ animal imagery remains some of the
most contested literary works in the canon.
TEXT
•I drown in the drumming ploughland, I drag up
Heel after heel from the swallowing of the earth’s mouth,
From clay that clutches my each step to the ankle
With the habit of the dogged grave, but the hawk
•

Effortlessly at height hangs his still eye.

His wings hold all creation in a weightless quiet,
Steady as a hallucination in the streaming air.
While banging wind kills these stubborn hedges,
TEXT
• Thumbs my eyes, throws my breath, tackles my heart,
And rain hacks my head to the bone, the hawk hangs
The diamond point of will that polestars
The sea drowner’s endurance: and I,

Bloodily grabbed dazed last-moment-counting

Morsel in the earth’s mouth, strain towards the master-
Fulcrum of violence where the hawk hangs still,
That maybe in his own time meets the weather

Coming from the wrong way, suffers the air, hurled upside down,
Fall from his eye, the ponderous shires crash on him,
The horizon traps him; the round angelic eye
Smashed, mix his heart’s blood with the mire of the land.
‘The Hawk in the Rain’
• Hughes was known for his powerful and often raw poetry, deeply
rooted in nature and the human experience.
• "The Hawk in the Rain" is considered one of his seminal works,
featuring poems that explore themes of violence, survival, and the
primal forces of nature, often depicted through vivid imagery of
animals and landscapes.
• The title poem itself, "The Hawk in the Rain," captures the
intensity and majesty of the hawk as it navigates through stormy
weather, embodying strength and determination amidst adversity.
Detailed Analysis
• The practice of hawking is taking a trained hawk out to capture prey.

• Inhis poem, ‘The Hawk in the Rain’, the hawk is the hunted being, and the hunter,
following it, happens to witness a cruel act of nature: the wind buffets the noble
hawk down to the ground, where it smashes into the earth and dies.

• One of Ted Hughes‘ primary ideals was the superiority of animals over man because
of their inability to understand death thus they do not fear death; they are free from
inhibitions, focused on life, and innocent of corruption, thus acting as agents for the
immoralities and impurities of mankind.
Detailed Analysis
• In‘The Hawk in the Rain’, the graceful hawk is contrasted against the lumbering
weight of the hunter – notice the different words used to signify movement for the
hunter (‘drag up’, ‘clutches my every step’) and the hawk (‘steady as a
hallucination’).

• Given the state of England at the time of writing the poem, one can attribute a
broader symbolism to the hawk: the noble animal, struggling in a mad world, can be
taken in the patriotic worldview of England suffering through the insanities of the
world around it, coming out of the storm of the Second World War and into the
trauma of the Cold War. Here, the hawk symbolizes Great Britain; the hunter is the
unnamed spirit of the world, watching from a distance.
Detailed Analysis
• Ben Howard accused him of writing predominantly violent poetry “has
often seemed the celebrant, if not the proponent, of violence and
destruction”.

• Itwas he who gave Hughes the nickname ‘terror’s ambassador’, and he

was disgusted with Hughes’ violent imagery, of which there was plenty in
his poetry.

• Hughes himself claimed that he embellished his verses in order to delve

deeper into the imagination and thus find the “genuine self”.
Detailed Analysis
• The function of poetry is to express something of the “deep complexity that
makes us precisely the way we are”, and so his return to the inner self was “a
return to the woods”, which became the central theme of his poetry.

• Theviolence, thus, was a form of cleansing ritual, a pathway back to the

innocent.

• Inthese two stanzas, the violence of the words stands out: it is impossible to
read it and not feel, in the edge of your teeth, the violence that Ted Hughes
wanted to convey.
Detailed Analysis
• Even a simple phrase like ‘thumbs my eyes’ shows the violence of nature,
which has often been shown in poetry as innocent and undeserving of
violence; Hughes’ nature, on the other hand, is a primal force, something that
was there before man and will outlive man, and every inch of its power
comes through in these stanzas.
• Nature, as well, is not about destroying its creations – thus the death of the
hawk that is about to occur – which is another quality that lends this poem a
chaotic, almost cruel, tone to it.
Detailed Analysis
•This idea of nature, however, is not natural; it is nature
twisted by humans, nature tortured by humans.
•Nature is not simple anymore; it has evil from humans,
and “nature becomes the devil. He doesn’t sound like
Isis, mother of the gods, which he is.
•He sounds like Hitler’s familiar spirit.”
Detailed Analysis
• The balance in nature in postwar Britain, to Hughes, only existed in nature – “poetry
is … the record of how the forces of the Universe trying to redress some balance
disturbed by human error.”

• Nature provided peace and shelter, but they took advantage of that; now, nature is
revolting against humans, and nothing can stop it because nature will always be
stronger.
Detailed Analysis
• With animals, Hughes tried to show the primitiveness of mankind and let
them vent their violent nature most of the animals he chose are predatory,
hunting animals which may be allegorised to humans.

• Hughes fought in World War II, and witnessed precisely what Britain was
going through, and comparing humans to hawks made more sense than
comparing them to swans; this also helped to show the destruction that
occurred during WWII.
Detailed Analysis
• The denouement of the poem is the death of the hawk: once noble, it is smashed
onto the ground like a child throwing a tantrum – again, by humanizing nature, it
allows the reader to come to terms with the idea of nature that has been twisted by
the presence of humanity.

• Divinity exists in the description of the hawk (’round angelic eye’), even broken as
it is.
Themes
• 1. Nature's Primal Forces:
• Predation and Survival: Hughes often portrays nature as a fierce arena where
predators hunt for survival.
• The poems depict the struggle for existence and the relentless cycle of life and
death.
• Power and Majesty: Nature is depicted as awe-inspiring and majestic, with
elements like storms, mountains, and animals exuding a sense of power that dwarfs
human concerns.
• Balance and Harmony: Despite its wildness, nature also displays a delicate
balance and harmony. Hughes explores the intricate connections between different
elements of the natural world.
Themes
• Human Experience:
• Identity and Self-Discovery: Many poems in the collection explore themes of
human identity and the quest for self-discovery. Hughes often reflects on the human
condition and the search for meaning amidst the chaos of existence.
• Conflict and Turmoil: Hughes portrays the human experience as fraught with
internal and external conflicts. These conflicts may arise from societal pressures,
personal struggles, or the clash between human desires and the natural world.
• Connection with Nature: There's a profound connection between humans and the
natural world in Hughes's poetry. He explores how encounters with nature can shape
human emotions, perceptions, and understanding of the self.
Themes
• Transcendence and Transformation:
• Spiritual and Mystical Themes: Hughes's poetry occasionally touches upon
spiritual and mystical themes, suggesting that encounters with nature can
lead to moments of transcendence and enlightenment.

• Metamorphosis and Change: Nature's constant cycles of growth, decay,

and renewal mirror the transformative processes within human life. Hughes
explores themes of change, adaptation, and the passage of time.
Themes
• 4. Beauty and Brutality:
• Beauty in the Wild: Despite its harshness, Hughes finds beauty
in the wildness of nature. He celebrates the intricate patterns,
colors, and sounds of the natural world.

• Brutality and Violence: At the same time, Hughes does not shy
away from depicting the brutal aspects of nature. The poems
portray the violence of predation, the destructive power of storms,
and the harsh realities of survival.
Themes
•5. Environmental Awareness:
• Ecological Concerns: While not as overt as in some
contemporary environmental poetry, Hughes's work does
reflect an awareness of ecological issues.

• Hehighlights the impact of human actions on the natural

world and the need for stewardship and respect for the
environment.
Literary Devices
1. Imagery: Hughes's use of vivid imagery is one of his defining literary devices. He
paints rich, sensory pictures with his words, allowing readers to vividly visualize
scenes from nature and human experience.
2. Metaphor and Symbolism: Hughes frequently employs metaphor and symbolism to
convey deeper meanings. For example, the hawk in "The Hawk in the Rain" can be
seen as a symbol of power, freedom, and primal instinct.
3. Personification:Hughes often personifies elements of nature, giving them human-
like qualities. This technique helps to blur the boundaries between the human and
natural worlds.
4. Alliteration
and Assonance: Hughes utilizes these sound devices to create rhythm
and musicality in his poetry. They contribute to the overall sonic texture of his work.
Tone
1. Elevated:
Hughes's tone can be described as elevated or grandiose, especially when
describing the power and majesty of the natural world.

2. Intense:
There's an intense emotional quality to Hughes's poetry, with moments of
both beauty and brutality evoking strong feelings in the reader.

3. Contemplative: Amidst the chaos and violence of nature, there's also a

contemplative tone as Hughes reflects on deeper existential questions and the
human condition.
Analysis Text
• "The Hawk in the Rain" is a powerful exploration of the primal
instinct and predatory nature of the hawk, set against the backdrop
of a storm.
• The poem begins with vivid imagery depicting the hawk's
descent, its "shoulders globed like a full sail strung" suggesting
both power and grace.
• The stormy weather intensifies the atmosphere, reflecting the
inner turmoil and violence of the hawk's hunt.
Analysis Text
• Hughes uses metaphor and symbolism to convey deeper themes
of power, freedom, and the relentless pursuit of survival.
• The hawk becomes a symbol of primal instinct, embodying the
fierce will to live and thrive in the face of adversity.
• Thepoem's tone is intense and elevated, capturing the raw energy
and brutality of the natural world.
Analysis Text
•Through his masterful use of language and imagery,
Hughes invites readers to contemplate the deeper
meanings behind the hawk's primal dance in the rain.

•It'snot just a depiction of a bird hunting its prey, but a

reflection on the fundamental forces that drive all life and
the eternal struggle for existence.
“Birthday Letters”
•"Birthday Letters" is a critically acclaimed collection of
poetry written by Ted Hughes, published in 1998, shortly
before his death.
•This collection is notable for its deeply personal nature,
as Hughes addresses his tumultuous relationship with his
first wife, the American poet Sylvia Plath, who died by
suicide in 1963.
Themes
•Love and Loss: Central to "Birthday Letters" is the
theme of love and loss, particularly focusing on Hughes's
complex and intense relationship with Sylvia Plath.

•The poems delve into the depth of their connection, as

well as the pain and sorrow of her death.
Themes
•Memory and Reflection: Hughes reflects on his past
with Plath, revisiting significant moments in their
relationship.
•Memory becomes a powerful tool for understanding and
coming to terms with the past.
Themes
•Guilt and Redemption: The collection explores
Hughes's feelings of guilt and responsibility
regarding Plath's death.
•He grapples with the aftermath of her suicide and
seeks some form of redemption through his poetry.
Themes
• Creativity and Inspiration: As both Hughes and Plath were renowned
poets, "Birthday Letters" also delves into the themes of creativity and
inspiration.
• The collection offers insights into the creative processes of both poets and
the influence they had on each other.
• Nature and Symbolism: Hughes often employs natural imagery and
symbolism in his poetry, and "Birthday Letters" is no exception.
• Nature serves as a backdrop for the emotional drama unfolding in the poems,
reflecting the intensity of the human experience.
Literary Devices
• Imagery: Hughes uses vivid imagery to evoke the settings and emotions of
his poems, transporting readers to the moments he describes.
• Symbolism: Objects, animals, and natural elements often carry symbolic
significance, adding depth and complexity to the poems.
• Metaphor: Hughes employs metaphor to convey the complexities of his
emotions and experiences, often drawing on natural and mythological
imagery to enrich his poetry.
• Allusion: The collection is filled with references to literature, mythology,
and cultural events, enriching the poems with layers of meaning and
association.
Tone
• Reflective: The tone of "Birthday Letters" is introspective and
contemplative, as Hughes reflects on his past and his relationship with Plath.
• Confessional: There's a sense of raw honesty and vulnerability in Hughes's
poetry as he confronts his own emotions and experiences.
• Regretful:Hughes's tone is often tinged with regret and sorrow, particularly
as he grapples with the events surrounding Plath's death.
• Resilient:Despite the pain and turmoil depicted in the poems, there's also a
sense of resilience and strength as Hughes seeks to come to terms with his
past.
Analysis
•"Birthday Letters" is a deeply personal and introspective
collection of poetry that offers readers a poignant glimpse
into the tumultuous relationship between Ted Hughes and
Sylvia Plath.

•Through vivid imagery, rich symbolism, and raw

emotion, Hughes navigates the complexities of love, loss,
guilt, and redemption.
Analysis
• Thecollection unfolds like a series of intimate confessions, with
Hughes revisiting key moments in his relationship with Plath and
grappling with the profound impact of her death.

• The poems are imbued with a sense of longing and regret, as

Hughes confronts his own role in their troubled marriage and
seeks some form of understanding and closure.
Analysis
• Throughout "Birthday Letters," Hughes demonstrates his mastery
of language and poetic form, weaving together themes of memory,
creativity, and the enduring power of love.

• The collection serves not only as a tribute to Plath but also as a

testament to the enduring power of poetry to explore the depths of
the human heart.
Conclusion
• Inconclusion, "Birthday Letters" by Ted Hughes is a profoundly
moving and introspective collection of poetry that delves into the
complex and tumultuous relationship between Hughes and Sylvia
Plath.

• Through vivid imagery, rich symbolism, and raw emotion,

Hughes navigates themes of love, loss, guilt, and redemption,
offering readers a poignant glimpse into the depths of human
emotion and experience.
Conclusion
•The collection is characterized by its reflective and
confessional tone, as Hughes confronts his own
memories and emotions with raw honesty and
vulnerability.
•Each poem serves as a window into a specific moment or
aspect of Hughes's relationship with Plath, from their
initial meeting to the aftermath of her death.
Conclusion
• Through "Birthday Letters," Hughes demonstrates his mastery of
language and poetic form, weaving together themes of memory,
creativity, and the enduring power of love.

• The
collection is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit
and the transformative power of poetry to explore the
complexities of the human heart.
Conclusion
•Ultimately, "Birthday Letters" stands as a timeless
tribute to the enduring legacy of Hughes and
Plath's relationship, offering readers a profound
and intimate glimpse into the depths of their shared
history and the enduring power of love and poetry
to transcend the boundaries of time and space.
Thank You