"Who" is a profound and thought-provoking poem by W. H. Auden, originally published in his 1940 poetry collection, "Another Time." The poem poses existential questions about identity, humanity, and the nature of self. Auden explores these themes through evocative imagery and a unique structure, creating a poem that resonates deeply with readers.
Form and Structure:
Auden's poem is written in free verse, characterized by the absence of a consistent rhyme scheme or metrical pattern. This form allows the poem to flow freely and mimics the natural rhythm of thought. The poem is structured into four stanzas, with each stanza presenting a different aspect of the central question: "Who?"
Imagery:
The poem is filled with vivid and symbolic imagery that invites readers to contemplate the nature of identity and humanity. Auden uses comparisons such as "the shadow of a question," "the eyes of a child," and "the body of a dancer." These images provoke thought and encourage readers to look within themselves for answers.
Existential Questions:
At its core, "Who" raises fundamental existential questions about the nature of self and existence. Auden delves into the uncertainty and complexity of human identity, exploring the gap between the self we perceive and the self that others perceive. The poem delves into the paradoxes of the human condition, where the known and the unknown coexist.
Identity and Duality:
The poem explores the dualities within human identity, emphasizing how individuals are both individuals and part of a collective. Auden writes, "We are what we eat, / What we drink, / What we breathe." This reinforces the idea that our identity is shaped by both external factors and our own experiences and choices.
Empathy and Connection:
Underlying the existential questions, the poem also conveys a sense of empathy and connection. The repeated "Who?" suggests that the search for identity is not a solitary journey, but rather a collective one. Auden's use of plural pronouns highlights the shared nature of human experience and the universality of the questions he raises.
Conclusion:
W. H. Auden's "Who" is a profoundly thought-provoking poem that grapples with essential questions of identity, humanity, and self-awareness. Through evocative imagery and a deliberate structure, Auden encourages readers to introspect and consider their own sense of self and their place in the world. The poem's enduring relevance lies in its ability to capture the existential quandaries that continue to resonate with individuals, urging us to reflect on the complexities of our own existence.