The Four Angels (Poem by Rudyard Kipling)

The Four Angels

By Rudyard Kipling

As Adam lay a-dreaming beneath the Apple Tree,

The Angel of the Earth came down, and offered Earth in fee.

            But Adam did not need it,

            Nor the plough he would not speed it,

    Singing: — 'Earth and Water, Air and Fire,

                What more can mortal man desire?'

                        (The Apple Tree's in bud.)

As Adam lay a-dreaming beneath the Apple Tree,

The Angel of the Waters offered all the Seas in fee.

            But Adam would not take 'em,

            Nor the ships he wouldn't make 'em,

    Singing: — 'Water, Earth and Air and Fire,

                What more can mortal man desire?'

                    (The Apple Tree's in leaf.)

As Adam lay a-dreaming beneath the Apple Tree,

The Angel of the Air he offered all the Air in fee.

            But Adam did not crave it,

            Nor the flight he wouldn't brave it,

    Singing: — 'Air and Water, Earth and Fire,

                What more can mortal man desire?'

                    (The Apple Tree's in bloom.)

As Adam lay a-dreaming beneath the Apple Tree,

The Angel of the Fire rose up and not a word said he,

            But he wished a flame and made it,

            And in Adam's heart he laid it,

    Singing: — 'Fire, Fire, burning Fire!

                Stand up and reach your heart's desire!'

                    (The Apple Blossom's set.)

As Adam was a-working outside of Eden-Wall,

He used the Earth, he used the Seas, he used the Air and all;

            And out of black disaster

            He arose to be the master

                Of Earth and Water, Air and Fire,

                But never reached his heart's desire!

                    (The Apple Tree's cut down!)

Poem Analysis:

"The Four Angels" by Rudyard Kipling is a thought-provoking poem that explores the essence of human desire and the quest for fulfillment through the allegorical interactions between Adam and the angels representing Earth, Water, Air, and Fire.

Symbolism of the Angels: Each angel symbolizes one of the fundamental elements of nature: Earth, Water, Air, and Fire. These elements are not only physical but also represent aspects of human existence and aspiration.

Adam's Rejection: In each encounter, Adam rejects the offerings of the angels. Despite being offered dominion over Earth, the Seas, the Air, and the Fire, Adam does not succumb to temptation. His refusal suggests a deeper understanding of the limitations of material possessions and power.

The Apple Tree: The recurring motif of the Apple Tree serves as a backdrop to Adam's contemplation and decision-making process. It symbolizes both the innocence of Eden and the transient nature of human existence.

The Angel of Fire: The Angel of Fire stands apart from the others by not offering anything but igniting a flame within Adam's heart. This flame symbolizes human ambition, passion, and the pursuit of desire.

Human Mastery and Tragedy: As Adam ventures outside of Eden and begins to harness the elements for his own purposes, he becomes the master of Earth, Water, Air, and Fire. However, despite his mastery, he never attains his "heart's desire," suggesting the elusive nature of true fulfillment and the inherent limitations of human existence.

The Apple Tree's Fate: The poem concludes with the cutting down of the Apple Tree, symbolizing the loss of innocence and the inevitable passage of time. Adam's journey from innocence to experience mirrors the universal human experience of growth, struggle, and ultimately, mortality.

Themes

1. Desire and Fulfillment: The poem explores the human condition's perpetual search for meaning and fulfillment, highlighting the transient nature of material possessions and earthly desires.
2. Mastery and Limitations: Adam's mastery over the elements underscores humanity's capacity for innovation and progress. However, it also underscores the inherent limitations and complexities of human existence.
3. Loss of Innocence: The cutting down of the Apple Tree symbolizes the loss of innocence and the inevitable transition from paradise to the harsh realities of the world.

In conclusion, "The Four Angels" is a profound exploration of human nature, desire, and the pursuit of fulfillment. Through vivid imagery and allegorical storytelling, Kipling invites readers to contemplate the complexities of existence and the timeless quest for meaning and purpose.