In Robert Frost's poem "Bond and Free," the concept of "thought" is indeed personified. The line "Thought has shaken his ankles free" is a powerful image that highlights the liberating nature of thought. The speaker is describing a feeling of liberation, a breaking away from constraints and limitations. The image of sh...
The line "Thought has shaken his ankles free" suggests a breaking free from physical bonds and restrictions. The speaker is no longer bound by the chains of the past or the limitations of the present. This sense of freedom is often associated with intellectual curiosity, exploration, and the pursuit of knowledge.
Frost's use of personification here allows him to convey the power of thought. Thought is not simply a passive process but an active force that can change our perspectives, challenge our beliefs, and ultimately lead to our liberation. This personification invites readers to see thought as a living entity with its own independent agency and power.
B. Frost personifies "wings" - "a pair of dauntless wings."
In "Bond and Free," Robert Frost uses the imagery of wings to personify a sense of courage and the potential for flight. The line "a pair of dauntless wings" is a metaphor for the ability to rise above limitations and embrace the unknown.
The "dauntless wings" suggest a freedom from fear and the power to soar. The speaker is not held back by doubts or anxieties but is ready to take on any challenge. These wings represent a sense of confidence, ambition, and the willingness to embrace the unknown.
By personifying "wings," Frost emphasizes the importance of embracing freedom and courage in the face of adversity. The "wings" act as a symbol of hope and the potential for greatness. They represent the human spirit's capacity to overcome challenges and achieve its full potential.
C. Frost personifies "star" - "To find fused"
While the poem does not explicitly personify "star," it does use the image of a star to convey a sense of aspiration and a desire for connection. The lines "To find fused" refer to a desire for a sense of unity and purpose, a yearning for something larger than oneself. The "star" acts as a symbol of this aspiration.
The "star" in "Bond and Free" could be interpreted as a guiding light, a symbol of hope and inspiration. It represents something beyond the immediate, something that can bring meaning and fulfillment to one's life. The speaker is striving to reach this "star," to become connected to something greater than themselves.
The poem's final line, "And yet I find my freedom lies in what I'm bound to," emphasizes the paradoxical nature of freedom. It suggests that true freedom is not found in being unbound, but in embracing our commitments and finding meaning in our connections to others.
Overall, Robert Frost's poem "Bond and Free" explores the complex relationship between freedom and commitment. Through his use of personification and imagery, Frost highlights the importance of embracing both the liberating power of thought and the courage to embrace our obligations.