I love Hopkins’ poem about waking in hell. The idea of a Heaven and Hell is spellbinding, and gives more attractive natures to the idea of being disowned by God and cast into hell. The darkness that covers him when he awakes is not just an external cover, but an indication of what he feels like on the inside.
“ I am gall, I am heartburn. God’s most deep decree
Bitter would have me taste: my taste was me;
Bones built in me, flesh filled, blood brimmed the curse.” (778, lines 9-11)
Suggests that he did not simply awake into hell, he was born there. His flesh and bone were built to suit the hellish heat by God alone. However, he woke up to find that he was still much better off than those who must experience hell away from God and Jesus. Is he suggesting that Earth is a form of hell? A temporary torment with the option of “saving” out through a redeemer? And if so, why would God create Earth to be a slight form of hell?
I don’t think I will ever know the answer to the latter question, but I can question and answer my own beliefs of heaven and hell. And Hopkins has helped get the ball rolling.
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5 comments:
Chrishon,
Your analysis of Hopkins' writing really caught my attention. Even though it is a short analysis, you make a great point. The way you end your analysis by asking open-ended question is very efficient. I believe you are right when you say that Earth might be some kind of Hell. Is he maybe talking about the people not converting to God living Hell before the Judgment Day itself?.. Hopkins does help thinking about this topic and as you mentioned, those questions might remain forever unanswered but are worth being asked.
I enjoyed this post because I too am very interested in Heaven and Hell. I enjoy learning about both and exploring my own faith. I thought you had an interesting perspective when you asked if Earth might be some form of Hell. I am not sure if I agree with it, but it was interesting to view it in that way.
I enjoyed your interpretation of Hopkins' poem because you interpreted it differently than I did, so I am now able to read the poem in a different way. I also liked your questions at the end; they also helped me to see the poem in a different light. After reading it again I can see where you came from, especially with the "lost" ones being worse off than the speaker, good job!
I agree with Ivan. This post definitely caught my attention! DID God create the Earth to be a slight form of hell? With my religious beliefs, I would have to say no he did not. Nevertheless, if he did, everything happens for a reason so there would be a good explanation of why he would do so. Great post an great analysis. Heaven vs Hell is always interesting to read.
YOu did a great jon on this post. I dont even like Hopkins but I enjoyed reading your post. The existence of Heaven and Hell are two things that will baffel the humanity. I agree with you in that Earth is some form of hell, if there is a better place out there doesnt that mean that this has to be hell?
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