While the idea of death as a liberating force is powerful, it is unconvincingly expressed in this poem. For example, the speaker says that he wants to die so that he can “fling” away his “earth-born vanities,” which we could probably take more seriously if he managed not to rhyme “fling” with wing, cling, and sting. Badabing! It’s impossible to infer what “cares” the speaker has been facing, since he uses such vague terms as “fetters” and “unreal fancies.” If his cares are “petty,” then would they really “sting”? And it’s particularly difficult to see why having opportunities to think deeply would motivate suicide. All in all, we hope that this poet found the strength to get off his “lone couch,” get some exercise, and stop writing turkeys!

Boston Public Library, Research Library