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The poem
I had a little child was born in the month of May.
He croaked and he crowed from early in the day.
He sang like a bird and he delighted to play
And before the night time he was gone away.
Little child, take no fright,
In that shadow where you are
The toothless glowworm grants you light.
Sure your mother's not afar.
Brave, brave, little boy,
Angels wave you round with joy.
Soon through the dark she runs to you,
Soon, soon your mother comforts you.
Analysis
James Agee's poem "A Song" reflects on the fleeting nature of life, particularly the innocence and vulnerability of childhood. The poem begins with a description of a child born in May, who is full of life, singing and playing joyfully. However, by the end of the day, the child is gone, symbolizing the brevity and fragility of life.
The second stanza addresses the child directly, reassuring him that even in death, there is a comforting light ("The toothless glowworm grants you light") and that his mother is watching over him ("Sure your mother's not afar"). This stanza offers a sense of peace and continuity beyond the physical world.
The final stanza acknowledges the bravery of the child ("Brave, brave, little boy") and suggests that angels are welcoming him with joy. The mention of the mother running to comfort him conveys a sense of reunion and eternal love.
Overall, "A Song" is a poignant reflection on the transient nature of life, the innocence of childhood, and the belief in a comforting afterlife. Agee's use of simple language and imagery evokes a sense of tenderness and melancholy, inviting the reader to reflect on the beauty
and fragility of life.
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