Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's poem "The Snow Cross" is a poignant reflection on grief, loss, and enduring love. Written in memory of his late wife, Frances Appleton, the poem delves into the depths of Longfellow's grief and longing for his beloved. Through vivid imagery, emotional language, and a somber tone, Longfellow captures the profound impact of loss on the human heart. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay The poem opens with the striking image of a snow cross, symbolic of the enduring nature of Longfellow's grief. The snow represents the cold and emptiness that now pervade his life in the absence of his wife. The cross, a symbol of suffering and sacrifice, serves as a reminder of the pain and anguish that Longfellow continues to endure in his absence. Longfellow's use of imagery throughout the poem is powerful and evocative. He describes the “mountain in the background” as a “vast and vacant” presence, mirroring the vast emptiness that now fills his heart. The images of the "avalanche" and "storm wind" further highlight the overwhelming nature of his grief, as he struggles to come to terms with his loss. Longfellow's language in the poem is emotional and sincere, reflecting the depth of his love. for his wife. He speaks of her as his "delight of life" and his "guiding star", emphasizing the central role she has played in his life. His use of phrases such as "O morning star" and "O evening star" conveys his reverence and adoration for her, as he continues to hold her memory close to his heart. The tone of the poem is dark and melancholic. , reflecting Longfellow's deep sense of loss. He talks about the "shadow" that now looms over his life, casting a pall of sadness and pain over everything he does. The repetition of the phrase “O cross of snow” throughout the poem emphasizes the enduring nature of his grief, as he grapples with the pain of his absence. Longfellow's exploration of grief and loss in "The Snow Cross" is both deeply personal and universally resonant. Through her poignant language and vivid imagery, she captures the raw emotion of losing a loved one and the lasting impact it has on the human soul. The poem serves as a powerful meditation on the nature of love, loss, and the enduring power of memory. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's poem "The Cross of Snow" is a moving tribute to his late wife and a touching exploration of grief and loss. Through his evocative imagery, emotional language, and somber tone, Longfellow conveys the profound impact of his absence on his life. The poem serves as a testament to the enduring power of love and memory, as Longfellow grapples with the pain of losing his beloved. “The Snow Cross” represents a timeless reminder of the enduring nature of pain and the power of love to transcend even the deepest pain.