TITLE:
A Poetic Exploration of Death Aesthetics
AUTHORS:
Yuqing Li, Ming Zhang
KEYWORDS:
Death Aesthetics, Ode to a Nightingale, Keats, Death’s Echo, Auden
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Access Library Journal,
Vol.10 No.8,
August
17,
2023
ABSTRACT: This paper inquiry delves into the representation of death’s aesthetics within John Keats’ renowned composition “Ode to a Nightingale”, originating in the 19th century, and Wystan Hugh Auden’s poignant masterpiece, “Echo of Death”, which emerged in the 20th century. By approaching this exploration from three distinct vantage points, namely the “imagery of death”, “poetic wisdom”, and the profound “Dionysian spirit”. The author meticulously dissects the poetic creations of both visionaries. The primary objective is to unravel the inherent profundity of death and its intricate aesthetic implications as conveyed through their remarkable verses. In light of the extensive research conducted, it becomes evident that these gifted poets seamlessly merged the contemplation of mortality with their poetic expressions, thereby embarking upon a metaphysical exploration of life’s enigmatic facets. The intertwining of their reverence for death with an ardent cherishment of life imparts a transcendent solace, ultimately giving rise to an intricate interplay between aesthetic tension and the fusion of eternal existence with the realm of nothingness.