"Submergence"
D.H. Lawrence uses his poetry to explore the quirks of human nature. He assumes different roles and uses different narrators, so as to look at situations through a different lens. In “Submergence,” for example, Lawrence examines the complexities of human identity. He suggests that humans are submerged in our own humanity—we are constantly surrounded by one another and, as result, constantly influenced by one another. These influences help to sculpt and shape us as humans; helps to inform our identities. When we are full immersed in humanity and surrounded by other humans, we are also fully immersed in our own identity. We are able to confront the images, influences, and experiences that have contributed to our own existence.
In this way, Lawrence uses this poem to suggest that most humans find comfort in numbers. When we are surrounded by our own kind—surrounded by people who are simply moving and existing around us—we are best able to appreciate the beauty and power that is the human condition. Lawrence wants his readers to appreciate the solace that can be found in total submergence and to realize that it is only when we are fully surrounded by other humans that we can begin to understand ourselves. We are but one individual piece in a might, magnificent whole.
"Beautiful Old Age"
Lawrence continues this same sentiment in “Beautiful Old Age.” In this poem, Lawrence explores the beauty of old age and suggests that to grow old is a gift. Here, Lawrence exposes his deep and intense understanding for the human condition and the beauty of aging; his own wisdom is beyond his years and matches the wisdom of the elderly people that he discusses. In this poem, the narrator suggests that old age is beautiful, because it allows one to truly reflect upon and appreciate the joys and spoils of one’s youth. Despite the incredible strength, power, and beauty that exists in old age, Lawrence understands that elderly people are not valued by society. They are viewed as senile creatures, whose purpose and usefulness were spent long ago.
Lawrence uses his poetry to dispel such terrible stereotypes and to prompt his readers to consider another perspective; he wants his readers to see the value of old age. In this way, Lawrence uses his poetry as a platform for social justice. He urges his readers to take stock in his themes and to change their own perspective, as they consider others. Much like “Submergence,” Lawrence also uses his poem to comment on the frailty and beauty of the human condition. Old age, he argues, is another marvel of existence and should be treated with great reverence and respect.
"Snake"
Lawrence continues to establish his moral ground and to impart this moral character upon his readers. In “Snake,” Lawrence uses a snake as a complex metaphor for the darker side of humanity. The narrator of this poem notices that a snake has come to drink at his water trough. Though the snake is not bothering him, nor showing any signs of danger or aggression, the narrator feels compelled to kill it and to desecrate its body. In the end, just as the snake is leaving, the narrator throws a stick at it and, though it is uninjured, he still deeply regrets this final act of savagery and judgement. This entire poem is a lengthy commentary on humanity’s penchant for judgement and cruelty. Humans have a terrible tendency to submit to the group mentality; we believe the stereotype and misconceptions of the masses and adopt them as truth.
The snake in this poem is representative of any underrepresented or minority group of individuals. Just like the snake, these people are not dangerous, but have a reputation for being so. The narrator of this poem is just as flawed as the rest of us, as is evidenced by the fact that, despite the fact that the snake did nothing to harm him, he still threw the stick at the snake while its back was turned. This poem is therefore a metaphor for humanity’s ability to willingly believe and follow misconceptions, even despite our own perceptions and/or experiences.
Therefore, Lawrence clearly uses his poetry to speak about the human condition. He wants readers to learn from his poems and to take social action.
