Funeral Blues

In the poem “Funeral Blues,” W.H. Auden’s choice of diction allows the reader a greater understanding of the intensity and depth of feeling experienced upon the loss of a loved one. Likewise, the symbolism used by the poet pulls us into the actual world of the grief stricken as he searches for ways to mourn this passing.
Auden’s choice of diction here was used to drawn the reader into the emotional disrepair felt by the afflicted. He shortens sentences and uses comparisons to the destruction left behind after the passing. “The stars are not wanted now: put out every one; Pack up the moon and dismantle the sun.” He is using these types of phrases to show us just how significant the death was. By using such statements as, “Stop all the clocks, cut off the telephone,” Auden shows a want of motion and sound stopped. He wants the reader to recognize the symbols of distress and mourning. “Put crepe bows round the white necks of the public doves. Let the traffic policemen wear black cotton gloves.” He uses the symbolism to express a certain respectful mourning. One can almost see the funeral procession of grieving family members and friends as they bring the coffin out with solemnity. After reading all of the other responses, I am greatly interested in finding out more about Auden's life. I feel that the explanation about the play and the poem being written for a woman to sing about someone is probably the most accurate. However, it could very well be that Auden was writing about his own love, or even just a dear, dear friend. I know that I have personally been able to write something this heartfelt about a friend. Auden was obviously an emotional man. Also, the satire view seems very reasonable. As well as being emotional, Auden was quirky.

In this poem, the writer uses regular verse and traditional pattern of rhythm and rhyme to give impact to his unexpected imagery of the end of a relationship when he cuts himself off from the rest of the his life because