Through a series of rhetorical questions, MacNeice contemplates what it means to be born, to possess consciousness, and to undertake the journey of life. The poem is divided into two stanzas, each exploring different aspects of the speaker's contemplations.
In the first stanza, the speaker ponders their potential characteristics, wondering whether they will be courageous or cowardly, intelligent or foolish, and whether they will have a positive impact on the world or contribute to its disharmony. They ponder whether they will possess a soul or a sense of self, questioning the nature of consciousness and self-awareness.
The second stanza delves deeper into the speaker's concerns, expressing worry about the suffering, hardship, and potential cruelty they might encounter in the world. The speaker also wonders whether they will be capable of love, joy, and compassion or if their existence will be marred by sorrow and regret.
Throughout the poem, MacNeice employs a prayer-like tone, addressing their thoughts to an unnamed entity, perhaps a higher power or the essence of life itself. They yearn for guidance, clarity, and a sense of purpose, seeking assurance that their existence will have meaning and significance.
"Prayer Before Birth" is a profound and thought-provoking poem that explores the human experience from the unique perspective of a soul尚未存在。It offers a glimpse into the existential ponderings that may arise even before birth, capturing the vulnerabilities, hopes, and fears that accompany the prospect of entering a complex and unpredictable world.