Journeys- Robert Frost

“It's the journey not the arrival that matters” as journeys are often a metaphor for that which transcends the physical realms of one's travels. It is the medium for arrival that allows for the opportunity for self-discovery. The complexities of life as revealed throughout Robert Frost's poetry, use ordinary, physical journeys in nature to demonstrate how journeys often reach beyond the physical sense in which they are composed. Similarly, the novel Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher and the short film, “Harvie Krumpet,” present the plight of ordinary people and the life changing possibilities of journeys. An equally prominent theme is the occurrence of the need for changing paths as obstacles arise and the effect such change has upon the arrival. These texts demonstrate how the intended destination is often not the final destination. The composers, through the use of a variety of literary and filmic techniques show these similar themes throughout the texts. Consequently, the composers are able to present their understanding of the concept of journeys
Frost's poem, “The Road Not Taken,” is an extended metaphor for lost possibilities or missed opportunities. The persona reflects upon the impacts of a decision and, perchance, what may have been. This is evident in, “I shall be telling this with a sigh/ Somewhere ages and ages hence.” Thus, the responder can conceive the persona is dubious as to whether the right decision has been made.
Furthermore, the text contains repetition of the image of two roads diverging. This symbolises the arising of pivotal moments where decision are required. This aids the responder to connect with the persona as in every part of life decisions are required and choices are often difficult to arrive at. Frost also conveys the idea that journeys have a tendency to flow smoothly whether the outcomes are positive or negative. This is portrayed through the consistent rhyme scheme throughout the stanzas. The flowing rhyme