Summary of the poem The Scarecrow by Walter de la mare?

In Walter de la Mare’s poem “The Scarecrow,” the narrator begins with a personified description of a scarecrow figure standing “In the midst of the wheat.” Human characteristics are bestowed upon the scarecrow, depicting him as a “lonely sentinel,” “gazing” towards the horizon. The atmosphere created in the poem is somber and the scarecrow’s presence in the field imparts an enigmatic sense of foreboding.

As the narrator contemplates the scarecrow’s lonesome stance, they draw a comparison to a “ghastly tragedy.” The scarecrow becomes a symbol of forgotten or overlooked suffering. The figure appears to endure an eternal silence and solitude. The scarecrow has become a forgotten, haunting presence amidst the peaceful scene of the wheat field.

Further emphasizing the scarecrow’s isolation, the poem describes the absence of any nearby presence. There is no mention of farmers or other human figures. This solitude gives the scarecrow an eerie and otherworldly quality. He is portrayed as a sentinel guarding over an empty land.

The scarecrow’s gaze is also a notable aspect of the poem. He is described as “gazing,” but the object of his gaze remains unknown. This ambiguity contributes to the poem’s enigmatic quality and hints at the scarecrow’s hidden inner thoughts and emotions. It leaves readers wondering what the scarecrow might be pondering, adding to the mysterious aura surrounding his presence.

The final lines of the poem offer a somber conclusion. The scarecrow’s enduring watch continues as the seasons pass him by. He stands as a silent witness to time’s passing and the cycle of life and decay. The poem ends on a contemplative note, leaving readers to ponder the deeper meaning and significance of the scarecrow’s presence in the wheat field.

Walter de la Mare’s “The Scarecrow” is a haunting portrayal of isolation and forgotten suffering. Through its evocative imagery and metaphorical language, the poem invites readers to reflect on the overlooked and marginalized in society. The poem’s somber atmosphere and enigmatic scarecrow figure create a lasting impact, leaving readers with a lingering sense of mystery and contemplation.