Clay

Mending Wall by Robert Frost : An Analysis

Introduction

In its explicit narration , the poem simply describes the regular work restoration of walls between two neighbors that basically delineates their properties . Each is consistently fixing their walls warily even if one stone is missing . However in such a simple scenario , the poems also posts deeper issues that is subject to a reader 's interpretation While every detail of the poem is simply imaginable with respect to the fixing fences , every line nevertheless has a significant second meaning Incidentally the construction of the

poem in a single stanza may have implied the consistency of the activities contained in the poem which ended with a question which denotes its perpetuation . More than just fixing the fences , the poem actually talks about the need for respecting our differences and at the same time transcending from these differences to foster unity and fight the common enemies that plagues humanity

Mending the Wall

The core issue discussed in Mending the Wall ' is differences and conflicts . In its literal sense , walls and fences are meant to separate properties or possessions of one from another . It only takes a single wall to delineate properties but both neighbors persistently provided their time and effort to fix their walls . As a matter of nature everyone build walls to protect themselves . As a matter of duty everyone build their walls to contribute their fair share in maintaining . Under these premises , the walls imply respect of differences (Hirsch , E .D . et al ) Individuals have rights over their properties but the execution of this right has a limitation . The right of a person ends where the right of another one begins . This is an unwritten rule which entails the sensitivity of every person to contribute to knowing their bounds . This is precisely why both neighbors took the initiative to fix the walls if necessary . Otherwise if only one person created a wall and fixes the same , there is in imbalance and unfairness that can be perceived

The poem also describes the different forces that damages the walls , to wit , that sends the frozen ground swell under it and spills the upper boulders in the sun . In terms of our differences , the former may refer to the critical ideas that challenge the foundations of our different beliefs while the latter may pertain to new ideas that can enlighten us to understand new things

It is important to note that amidst their individual ends in fixing their fences , the neighbors were also able to build a harmonious relationship with each other . Hence , while building walls segregates them , that mutual respect for their differences is able to permit good relationship with the each other . Incidentally , this is also why the other neighbor in the end commented , Good fences make good neighbors ' Because of differences in properties , values , beliefs and behavior , people should know their bounds with respect to others . And this duty must be inherent on everyone . All individuals must dole out their fair share...