Mending Wall is a poem by Robert Frost that explores the concept of boundaries and the human desire to divide and separate ourselves from others. In the poem, Frost uses the metaphor of a wall to symbolize the barriers that we erect in our relationships and in society. Through the use of repetition and imagery, Frost illustrates the idea that these walls are often unnecessary and can even be harmful.
The first line of the poem, "Something there is that doesn't love a wall," sets the tone for the rest of the poem. It suggests that there is some natural force that resists the creation of walls and divisions. This line also introduces the theme of the poem, which is the idea that we are constantly trying to mend or fix these walls, even though they may not be necessary or desirable.
The second line, "That sends the frozen-ground-swell under it," describes the physical process of building a wall. The frozen ground must be broken and moved in order to create a foundation for the wall. This line also suggests that there is a natural resistance to the construction of walls, as the ground must be forced to give way.
The third line, "And spills the upper boulders in the sun," describes the process of laying the stones for the wall. The boulders, which are large and heavy, are carefully placed on top of one another to create the wall. This line also adds to the theme of the poem, as it shows the effort that goes into building and maintaining these walls.
The fourth line, "And makes gaps even two can pass abreast," describes the spaces or gaps between the stones in the wall. These gaps allow people to pass through the wall, but only in pairs. This line suggests that even when we build walls, we still leave openings for communication and connection with others.
The fifth line, "The work of hunters is another thing," introduces a new idea into the poem. The speaker is now comparing the work of building a wall to the work of hunters. This comparison suggests that both activities involve a certain level of aggression and a desire to control or dominate.
The sixth line, "I have come after them and made repair," describes the speaker's own experience with mending the wall. He has followed in the footsteps of the hunters and has repaired any damage that they may have caused. This line suggests that the wall is a constantly-changing structure, and that it requires constant maintenance and repair.
The seventh line, "Where they have left not one stone on a stone," describes the damage that the hunters have done to the wall. They have removed or displaced the stones, leaving the wall in disrepair. This line adds to the theme of the poem, as it shows how easily these barriers can be broken or destroyed.
The eighth and final line, "But they would have the rabbit out of hiding," describes the hunters' ultimate goal in building the wall. They want to keep the rabbit, which symbolizes the natural world, out of sight and controlled. This line suggests that the wall serves as a means of separation and domination, rather than protection or connection.
In conclusion, Mending Wall is a powerful poem that explores the theme of boundaries and the human desire to divide and separate ourselves from others. Through the use of repetition and imagery, Frost illustrates the idea that these walls are often unnecessary and can even be harmful. The poem also suggests that despite our efforts to maintain and repair these walls, they are ultimately fragile and can be easily broken or destroyed.
