Poem 6: "The Bells" Summary

On first reading, "The Bells" seems to read like a happy song, detailing the stages of man's life and the significance of different sounds; hence, 'the bells,' repeated in almost musical cadence.

Poem 6: "The Bells" Analysis

A deeper reading, however, makes it clear that this poem is actually more melancholy in nature, and though it does mention the four stages of life, it is definitely not happy. The first stage is seen as being the happiest, yet shortest stage, with the last two being stages being sadder yet longer. Childhood is seen as the most carefree time in one's life, but it lasts for a very short amount of time. Growing older and being near death, the sorrowful times, seem to last so much longer. In the first stanza of the poem the bells chime merrily, while in...