"Mrs. Lazarus" is a powerful poem written by Carol Ann Duffy that explores the theme of loss and grief. Through the voice of Mrs. Lazarus, the speaker of the poem, Duffy delves into the emotional turmoil that comes with the death of a loved one.
The poem begins with Mrs. Lazarus speaking from the grave, describing her state of being as she lies in the tomb with her deceased husband. She reflects on the fact that she has been "buried for two thousand years," and yet she still feels the pain of loss as if it were fresh. This opening line serves to set the tone for the rest of the poem ā a tone of timeless, eternal grief.
The speaker goes on to describe how she has watched the world go by, observing the changes that have taken place over the centuries. She has seen wars and revolutions, the rise and fall of empires, and the passing of countless generations. And yet, despite the passage of time, Mrs. Lazarus remains trapped in her grief, unable to move on.
As the poem progresses, Mrs. Lazarus reflects on the nature of love and loss, and how they are intertwined. She speaks of the "unseen arms" that wrap around her, comforting her in her time of need, and wonders if her husband is also being held in a similar embrace. In this way, the speaker suggests that love and loss are two sides of the same coin, and that one cannot exist without the other.
The final stanza of the poem sees Mrs. Lazarus addressing her husband directly, telling him that she still loves him and that she will always carry his memory with her. She speaks of the "fierce love" that they shared, and how it has sustained her even in death. The speaker's words are a poignant reminder of the enduring power of love, even in the face of loss and death.
Overall, "Mrs. Lazarus" is a beautiful and moving poem that captures the raw emotion of grief and loss. Through the voice of the speaker, Carol Ann Duffy explores the timeless nature of love and the enduring power of memory.