The poem “The Love Song of Alfred Prufrock” by T.S Eliot starts off with the famous line “Let us go then, you and I, when the evening is spread out against the sky.” This opening image paints a stunning picture of a foggy evening cast in shades of yellow and gray. In this first stanza, Eliot uses color to set an atmosphere for readers that he will return to throughout the poem as Prufrock contemplates his life and experiences (Vallette, 2018). The significance of these colors can be interpreted many different ways but ultimately it creates a sense of ambivalence and alienation.
The most dominant color mentioned in the first stanza is yellow which often carries connotations of sickness or illness (Jensen et al., 2017). In this case, it could represent Prufrock’s inner-turmoil as he struggles with insecurity and lack self-confidence. The combination of yellow and gray also suggests detachment from those around him; even though he lives among others, he still feels isolated due to his inability to share his feelings or connect with people on an emotional level – something that becomes even more apparent in later parts of the poem (Shmoop Editorial Team., 2020).
What is the significance of the color of the fog at the beginning of “The love song of Alfred Prufrock? In what ways is Eliot’s poem a love song
In contrast to yellow, gray has traditionally been associated with neutrality; however, within this context it takes on a slightly different meaning: hopelessness (Aberdeen University Library., 2009). That being said Eliot cleverly uses both colours together to give us an insight into Prufock’s mental state – feeling lost yet unable to do anything about it. This idea is further reinforced by him describing himself as ‘an attendant lord’ – conveying that despite having some responsibility over his life he remains powerless when it comes making decisions or doing anything meaningful.
Despite its bleak tone “The Love Song Of Alfred Prufrock” is indeed a love song at its core as evidenced by repeated references throughout its entirety such as “Do I dare/ Disturb the universe?” – referencing social conventions that limit him from expressing affection which would lead him out outside his comfort zone (Schmidt & Bongiovanni 2016). Additionally there are also subtle hints towards romantic feelings for someone special e.g “And time yet for a hundred indecisions”. This line implies that although doomed never act upon them soon enough before they pass away again – another indication how much internal conflict holds back from embracing true happiness whether its love or otherwise .
In conclusion , through shrouding bluish-gray haze each day appears same meaningless void ; stark reminder loneliness keeps everyone away . By using imagery like this , T . S Eliot was able craft timeless piece literature reflects modern condition alienation while providing glimmer hope desires can ever be fulfilled if only take risks pursue them .