The First Chantey
By Rudyard Kipling
Mine was the woman to me, darkling I found her;
Haling her dumb from the camp, held her and bound her.
Hot rose her tribe on our track ere I had proved her;
Hearing her laugh in the gloom, greatly I loved her.
Swift through the forest we ran; none stood to guard us,
Few were my people and far; then the flood barred us —
Him we call Son of the Sea, sullen and swollen;
Panting we waited the death, stealer and stolen,
Yet ere they came to my lance laid for the slaughter,
Lightly she leaped to a log lapped in the water;
Holding on high and apart skins that arrayed her,
Called she the God of the Wind that he should aid her.
Life had the tree at that word, (Praise we the Giver!)
Otter-like left he the bank for the full river.
Far fell their axes behind, flashing and ringing,
Wonder was on me and fear, yet she was singing.
Low lay the land we had left. Now the blue bound us,
Even the Floor of the Gods level around us.
Whisper there was not, nor word, shadow nor showing,
Still the light stirred on the deep, glowing and growing.
Then did He leap to His place flaring from under,
He the Compeller, the Sun, bared to our wonder.
Nay, not a league from our eyes blinded with gazing,
Cleared He the womb of the world, huge and amazing!
This we beheld (and we live) — the Pit of the Burning,
Then the God spoke to the tree for our returning;
Back to the beach of our flight, fearless and slowly,
Back to our slayers he went: but we were holy.
Men that were hot in that hunt, women that followed,
Babes that were promised our bones, trembled and wallowed:
Over the necks of the tribe crouching and fawning —
Prophet and priestess we came back from the dawning!
Poem Analysis:
"The First Chantey" by Rudyard Kipling is a captivating narrative poem that intricately weaves a story of survival, spirituality, and the intervention of divine forces. Set in an ancient time, it details a perilous escape, a miraculous intervention, and the consequential transformation of the protagonist's status within the tribe.
- Dramatic Narrative: The poem unfolds as a dramatic and compelling narrative, beginning with the protagonist's daring act of saving a woman and fleeing from her tribe. The vivid descriptions create a sense of urgency and tension throughout the escape.
- Themes of Love and Survival: The protagonist's growing affection for the woman he rescues is subtly portrayed amidst the dangerous chase and flight. His commitment to her safety despite the dire circumstances showcases themes of love and survival.
- Encounter with the Divine: The encounter with the divine, represented as the "Son of the Sea" and the "God of the Wind," showcases a supernatural intervention. Their aid in crossing the river and providing protection amplifies the mystical elements in the story.
- Spiritual Transformation: The poem chronicles a significant transformation for the protagonist and the woman he rescues. The divine intervention at the river seems to elevate them to a holy or revered status within the tribe upon their return. The poem touches upon the idea of spiritual elevation and the transformative power of extraordinary events.
- Reverence and Fear: The portrayal of the divine intervention prompts feelings of awe, reverence, and fear among the tribe members. The supernatural events witnessed by the tribe result in a shift in their perceptions towards the protagonist and the woman he saved, elevating them to a prophetic and priestly status.
- Symbolism and Imagery: The use of vivid imagery and symbolism, particularly in the descriptions of the divine and the natural world, helps to create a rich and immersive experience for the reader. The intense descriptions of the landscape and the presence of divine elements immerse the reader in the protagonist's world.
- Cultural Context: The poem reflects aspects of early human societies, survival challenges, and the significance of spiritual beliefs and divine intervention in shaping the perceptions and status of individuals within a community.
In conclusion, "The First Chantey" by Rudyard Kipling is an evocative and powerful narrative that explores themes of survival, divine intervention, spiritual transformation, and the impact of extraordinary events on the status of individuals within a tribe. Through vivid imagery and a compelling storyline, the poem weaves a tale that invites readers to contemplate the significance of otherworldly experiences and their influence on human societies and beliefs.