Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Edward Field's poem "Frankenstein" offers a reimagined retelling of Mary Shelley’s iconic story, focusing on the loneliness and tenderness of the monster. By reframing the narrative through the lens of the monster’s emotions, Field highlights themes of alienation, kindness, and the often unjust fear of the "other."

The poem begins with the monster's escape: "The monster has escaped from the dungeon / where he was kept by the Baron." This opening emphasizes the oppressive conditions under which the monster was held. The description of the monster, with "knobs sticking out from each side of his neck" and "stitching all over / where parts of cadavers were sewed together," visually captures his grotesque appearance while reminding readers of his artificial origins. Field's use of concrete details evokes the familiar image from horror films, grounding the reader in the story's mythology.

The narrative then shifts to the ignorant villagers who "wave firebrands at him and cudgels and rakes." Their reaction to the monster’s appearance is driven by fear and ignorance, painting a picture of an unthinking mob mentality. The villagers’ pursuit underscores their lack of understanding and compassion.

In contrast, the blind man provides a moment of solace and acceptance for the monster. The scene at the old man's cottage begins with the blind man playing Mendelssohn's "Spring Song" on his violin, a choice of music that adds a poignant and serene backdrop. The blind man is unaware of the monster's appearance and welcomes him warmly: "Come in, my friend." His kindness marks a stark contrast to the cruelty of the Baron and the villagers.

Despite never having known kindness, the monster responds positively to the old man's hospitality. The monster's initial fear of food and drink reflects his unfamiliarity with basic human interactions. The blind man reassures him: "Eat, my friend. Eat-gooood" and "Drink, my friend. Drink-goood." The monster's attempts to mimic the old man’s words show his desire to connect and communicate. When the monster tries smoking for the first time, the old man gently encourages him: "No, my friend, smoke-goood," and the monster takes a puff, grunting with joy and saying, "Smoke-goood."

This newfound friendship touches the monster deeply. As the old man plays Mendelssohn's "Spring Song" again, tears come to the monster’s eyes "as he thinks of the stones of the mob, the pleasures of mealtime, / the magic new words he has learned / and above all of the friend he has found." The poem captures this rare moment of peace and joy, highlighting the monster’s humanity despite his terrifying exterior.

However, Field closes the poem with a foreshadowing of the tragedy to come. He writes, "It is just as well that he is unaware— / being simple enough to believe only in the present— / that the mob will find him and pursue him / for the rest of his short unnatural life." The monster’s innocence and newfound happiness make his ultimate fate even more tragic. The poem concludes with the ominous image of the monster "trapped at the whirlpool's edge" before plunging to his death.

Structurally, the poem is written in free verse, which allows Field to weave the narrative in a fluid and natural manner. The conversational tone and straightforward language make the story accessible while also enhancing the emotional impact of the poem.

Overall, Edward Field’s "Frankenstein" is a poignant exploration of acceptance and kindness in the face of ignorance and fear. By focusing on the monster's emotions and his brief moment of happiness, Field humanizes the creature and challenges the reader to look beyond appearances. The poem serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of prejudice and the need for compassion toward those who are different or misunderstood.

Copyright (c) 2025 PoetryExplorer

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...