The Miracles (Poem by Rudyard Kipling)

The Miracles

By Rudyard Kipling

I  sent a message to my dear — 

A thousand leagues and more to her — 

The dumb sea-levels thrilled to hear,

And lost Atlantis bore to her.

Behind my message hard I came,

And nigh had found a grave for me;

But that I launched of steel and flame

Did war against the wave for me.

Uprose the deep, by gale on gale,

To bid me change my mind again — 

He broke his teeth along my rail,

And, roaring, swung behind again.

I stayed the sun at noon to tell

My way across the waste of it;

I read the storm before it fell

And made the better haste of it.

Afar, I hailed the land at night — 

The towers I built had heard of me — 

And, ere my rocket reached its height,

Had flashed my Love the word of me.

Earth gave her chosen men of strength

(They lived and strove and died for me)

To drive my road a nation's length,

And toss the miles aside for me.

I snatched their toil to serve my needs — 

Too slow their fleetest flew for me — 

I tired twenty smoking steeds,

And bade them bait a new for me.

I sent the lightnings forth to see

Where hour by hour she waited me.

Among ten million one was she,

And surely all men hated me!

Dawn ran to meet us at my goal — 

Ah, day no tongue shall tell again! — 

And little folk of little soul

Rose up to buy and sell again!

Poem Analysis:

Rudyard Kipling's poem "The Miracles" narrates a remarkable journey filled with challenges, triumphs, and an unwavering commitment to reach a distant beloved. It is a testament to human determination and ingenuity, portraying the protagonist's use of various tools and strategies to overcome obstacles and unite with their love. This poem highlights themes of determination, resourcefulness, and the indomitable human spirit.

Themes:

1. Determination and Perseverance: The central theme of "The Miracles" is the protagonist's relentless determination and unwavering perseverance in reaching their beloved. Despite formidable obstacles, they employ various means and strategies to overcome challenges and achieve their goal.
2. Resourcefulness and Innovation: The poem underscores the importance of resourcefulness and innovative thinking when faced with adversity. The protagonist uses tools, such as messages, rockets, and lightning, to communicate and overcome obstacles.
3. Triumph Over Adversity: "The Miracles" celebrates the triumph of the human spirit over adversity. The protagonist's journey is fraught with difficulties, but their unwavering resolve allows them to ultimately succeed.

Structure and Language:

1. Stanza Structure: The poem consists of 9 quatrains, each with a consistent rhyme scheme (ABAB). This structure creates a sense of rhythm and progression, mirroring the protagonist's journey.
2. Imagery: Kipling employs vivid imagery to convey the challenges faced by the protagonist and the various methods employed to overcome them. The sea, the land, and the elements serve as powerful metaphors for obstacles to be conquered.
3. Metaphor and Symbolism: The poem uses metaphorical elements, such as launching a message "of steel and flame," to symbolize determination and the relentless pursuit of a goal.

Analysis:

1. Triumph Through Innovation: The poem's narrative showcases the protagonist's innovative approach to overcoming obstacles. From launching a message via "steel and flame" to using lightning to communicate, each action represents the triumph of human ingenuity over adversity.
2. Persistence and Resilience: The central character's journey is characterized by unwavering persistence and resilience. Despite facing formidable challenges and hostility, they continue to push forward, demonstrating a tenacious spirit that refuses to yield.
3. The Power of Love: Ultimately, "The Miracles" celebrates the power of love as the driving force behind the protagonist's journey. The lengths to which they go to reunite with their beloved underscore the profound influence of love in overcoming all obstacles.

Rudyard Kipling's "The Miracles" is a testament to the human spirit's ability to triumph over adversity through determination, innovation, and unwavering love. The protagonist's journey, filled with perilous obstacles and resourceful solutions, serves as an inspiring narrative of resilience and persistence. This poem reminds us of the incredible feats that can be achieved when one's heart is set on a goal, no matter how challenging the path may be.