Burnt Norton
The first of the four poems, Burn Norton begins with two epigraphs that allude to Heraclitus's works, adding to the element of intertextuality. In this poem, the poet attempts to understand the nature of time as well as the significance of the present in quotidian life. He also attempts to relate arts with time and understand the connection between the two. This poem, while fluid, is essentially rooted in the present.
East Coker
The second poem in the set, East Coker essentially proposes an idea antithetical to the traditional explanation of The Wasteland, attempting to understand the very nature of life and death. This poem has deeply religious connotations.
The Dry Salvages
The third of these four poems, this too was written during the World War II. In this poem, the poet goes back to the past and revisits his childhood. This poem too has religious connotations, and attempts to explain eternity as a set of "moments of revelation", finding a common link that connects all of mankind.
Little Gidding
This poem also tries to delineate the relation between time and humanity. It depicts the idea of a humanity that is torn between destruction and creation. The takeaway is that redemption for mankind emanates from God.
