Prisoner by Wole Soyinka

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PRISONER

Grey,to the low grass cropping

Slung,wet-lichened,wisps   from   such   Smoke heaviness,elusive of thin blades

Curl  inward  to  the  earth,breed

The grey hours,

And  days,and  years,for  do  not

The wise grey temples we shall build To  febrile  years,here  begin  -not

In tears and ashes,but on the sad mocking Threads,compulsive of the hour;

In  the  desert  wildness,when,lone  cactus,

Cannibal in his love -even amidst the

Crag  and  gorge,the  leap  and  night  tremors

Even as the potsherd stayed and the sandstorm Fell  -intimations  came.

In the whorled centre of the storm,a threnody But not  from  this.For that  far  companion,

Made sudden stranger when the wind slacked And the centre fell,grief.And the stricken

Potsherd  lay,disconsolate  -intimations  then

But  not  from  these.He  knew  only

Sudden  seizure.And  time  conquest

Bound him helpless to each grey essence. Nothing remained if pains and longings

Once,once  set  the  walls;sadness

Closed  him,rootless,lacking  cause.

 

Analysis 

"Prisoner" by Wole Soyinka is a contemplative poem that explores the theme of imprisonment, both literal and metaphorical, and the emotional landscape of confinement. Here's an analysis of its key elements:

The poem begins with vivid imagery of a desolate landscape, described as "grey," with wet lichen clinging to the grass. This setting establishes a somber and oppressive atmosphere, reflecting the confinement and heaviness experienced by the speaker.

The imagery of "thin blades curling inward to the earth" suggests a sense of entrapment and enclosure, as if the natural world itself is conspiring to confine the speaker. The repetition of "grey hours, and days, and years" emphasizes the relentless passage of time within this state of imprisonment.

The speaker reflects on the construction of "wise grey temples" within this confinement, suggesting a metaphorical journey towards enlightenment or self-realization amidst adversity. The reference to "febrile years" hints at the transformative potential inherent in moments of hardship and struggle.

The poem then shifts to describe moments of revelation or insight experienced by the speaker amidst the desolation of their imprisonment. Intimations of truth and understanding emerge "in the desert wildness," symbolized by the lone cactus and the harsh elements of nature.

The imagery of the "whorled centre of the storm" and the "threnody" suggests a profound encounter with the sublime forces of nature, evoking a sense of awe and reverence. However, despite these moments of clarity, the speaker remains confined by their circumstances, unable to fully grasp the significance of these revelations.

The poem concludes with a reflection on the inevitability of time and the enduring power of confinement to shape one's perception of reality. The speaker laments the loss of agency and autonomy, feeling bound and helpless by the relentless march of time.

Overall, "Prisoner" is a poignant exploration of the emotional and psychological toll of confinement, as well as the potential for resilience and self-discovery within the confines of adversity. Through its rich imagery and introspective tone, the poem invites readers to contemplate the nature of imprisonment and the human capacity for endurance in the face of hardship.