* Time and Memory: The poem explores how time distorts memory, making the past seem both distant and intensely vivid. The speaker grapples with the passage of time and how it affects his perception of grief.
* Loss and Mortality: The poem's title and subject matter directly address the experience of loss and its enduring impact. The speaker reflects on the death of someone close, suggesting a profound sense of absence and longing.
* The Power of Language: Thomas uses vivid imagery, poetic devices, and complex language to convey the emotional weight of grief. The poem itself acts as a testament to the power of language to grapple with difficult emotions and preserve memories.
* Reconciliation and Acceptance: While the poem expresses deep sadness, there's also a sense of seeking understanding and acceptance. The speaker grapples with the pain of loss but ultimately acknowledges the inevitability of death and the need to move forward.
Ultimately, "A Grief Ago" explores the multifaceted nature of grief, its impact on memory, the passage of time, and the human search for meaning in the face of loss. It's a powerful testament to the enduring power of grief and its ability to shape our understanding of life and death.