The Ships of Memory
By Frank Oliver Call
The silent ships of memory creep
Across the seas of long ago;
Like phantoms, on a tideless deep,
Their pale prows wander to and fro.
Some bear the dreams of happy years
Or bring a cargo all of gold;
Some bear a freight of useless tears,
For love and sorrow long untold.
And each man takes the proffered dower
For golden grain or bitter loss;
O, happy he that hath the power
To take the gold and leave the dross.
Poem Analysis:
Frank Oliver Call's poem "The Ships of Memory" offers a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the enduring power of memory. Through vivid imagery and metaphorical language, the poem explores the journey of life as a voyage on the "seas of long ago," where silent ships of memory carry the treasures of past experiences and emotions. Let's delve deeper into the themes and symbolism present in this evocative poem.
Symbolism of Memory
The central metaphor of "The Ships of Memory" likens memories to ships sailing across the vast expanse of time. These "silent ships" represent the recollections of past experiences, emotions, and relationships that shape individuals' identities and perceptions. Call personifies these memories, describing them as "phantoms" that wander on a "tideless deep," suggesting their ethereal and ever-present nature in the human psyche.
Varieties of Memories
The poem portrays memories as diverse and multifaceted, each ship carrying its own unique cargo. Some ships bear "the dreams of happy years" or "a cargo all of gold," symbolizing cherished memories and moments of joy and success. Others carry "a freight of useless tears," symbolizing the pain and sorrow of past disappointments and losses. Call's imagery underscores the complexity of human experience, where both joy and sorrow coexist in the tapestry of memory.
Reflections on Choice
Amidst the variety of memories carried by the ships, Call introduces an element of choice for individuals. Each person has the agency to "take the proffered dower" of memories, whether they be of "golden grain" or "bitter loss." This suggests that individuals have the power to shape their own narratives and perspectives by selecting which memories to hold onto and which to let go of. The phrase "O, happy he that hath the power" emphasizes the value of agency in navigating the complexities of memory and emotion.
Embracing the Riches of Memory
Ultimately, the poem celebrates the richness and depth of human experience encapsulated in memory. While some memories may bring pain or sorrow, others bring joy, fulfillment, and valuable lessons learned. Call suggests that true happiness lies in the ability to discern and appreciate the "golden grain" within the "bitter loss," to find meaning and beauty even amidst life's challenges and hardships.
"The Ships of Memory" by Frank Oliver Call is a reflective and introspective exploration of the human experience through the metaphor of memory. Through vivid imagery and metaphorical language, the poem delves into the complexities of memory, emotion, and choice, inviting readers to contemplate the significance of past experiences in shaping individual identities and perspectives. Ultimately, the poem celebrates the richness and diversity of human experience encapsulated in memory, reminding us of the enduring power of the past to illuminate the present and guide us into the future.