Summary:
"The River in March" is a powerful and evocative poem in which Ted Hughes captures the wild and tumultuous nature of a river in the month of March. The poem opens with the speaker addressing the river directly, describing it as a “roaring giant” and a “wild horse.” He imagines the river as it crashes over boulders and fallen trees, creating a forceful current that is in perpetual motion.
The speaker then compares the river to a wild animal, using vivid imagery to portray its energy and strength. He mentions the river’s “mane of foam” and “teeth of stone,” creating a sense of animalistic power. Additionally, he refers to the river’s roar as a “voice,” suggesting that it possesses a kind of agency and is able to express itself through its sound.
Throughout the poem, Hughes captures the dynamic and changeable nature of the river. As the ice melts in March, the river grows in volume and becomes more turbulent. The poem conveys a sense of the impermanence of nature and the constant cycle of change and transformation.
Furthermore, the poem explores the interplay between the natural world and the human experience. The speaker describes how the river “sings” as it flows over its obstacles, suggesting a poetic quality to the river’s movement. In doing so, Hughes suggests a connection between the human creative impulse and the forces of nature.
"The River in March" not only illustrates Hughes’ keen observation of the natural world but also highlights his skillful use of language and imagery to create a profound poetic experience.