The Death of the Hired Man by Robert Frost Poem Analysis

The expression, “opposites attract”, implies the idea of individuals with opposing traits in a healthy relationship, often referring to married relationships. Contrasting views, differing opinions, and opposing personalities can cause disruptions and test a relationship.  A similar situation plays out in, “The Death of the Hired man”. A poem which situates in the countryside, portraying a married couple, Warren and Mary, who have contrasting views concerning an old man on the brink of death, who was also, once, a former employee. Robert Frost’s, narrative composition showcases the relationship between a married couple, portraying two individuals with opposing views who struggle to conquer a challenging situation with their differing personalities and characteristics.

To start off, the definition of “home” plays a key role in this poem. Bloom analyses the importance of home and states, “Perhaps the central theme of the poem is the nature of home . Home is often a metaphor for comfort, safety, and refuge”(Bloom, Pg 90). Silas’s sudden appearance is due to his need for hospitality as he is very ill. With nowhere to go, his only hope is his former employer, Warren, whom he left in a time of need. Nonetheless, Mary’s definition of  “home” welcomes him in while Warren’s brings their past relationship. Mary believes in mercy and acceptance, when convincing Warren to let Silas stay, she states, “home is something you somehow haven’t to deserve”(Frost, 120). Mary’s character honors the bond between an employer and employee no matter what the past held, and that home is not earned, one is entitled of home. On the other hand, Warren’s definition is more rational than emotional. Warren states his definition of the term “home” as, “Home is the place where, when you have to go there, They have to take you in”

( Frost, Line 120). Warren’s perception relates “home” to an obligation in the absence of endearment or concern. He believes that one must earn “home” and considering Silas’s unreliable nature, he feels that it is a burden that must be fulfilled. The divide between both perspectives is significant as it hints at the contrasting desires within each of them.

Desire and values are subjective to an individual’s personality and can change when facing an obstacle. For example, “ The thematic statement of the poem grows out of the conflict between Warren and Mary and their relationship to Silas. Warren and Mary are confronted by a moral problem. What is their duty towards the hired man (Hollister Pg 1)? The moral problem this couple faces is difficult, due to the fact that their desires differ. Mary’s kind nature urges her to be charitable towards the old man. Her desire to offer hospitality and a home for the old man represents her need to be considerate and sympathetic. In contrast, Warren’s way of logically thinking exhibits his desire of being the authority figure in every circumstance. He reflects on the past in order to determine whether the old man is deserving of his hospitality or not. Furthermore, Donoghue explains Warren’s desires by stating, “ He is interested in the tragedy of a man defined by his humble work, who is no longer capable of engaging in that work” (Donoghue,Pg 82). Warren does not desire to be taken advantage of, which is why he does not look at Silas from an emotional perspective. Mary and Warren’s opposing desires directly reflect their individual identities and have an immense impact on their actions. 

When comparing the actions and tone between Warren and Mary, Mary’s actions seem to portray great tenderness, while Warren’s actions appear to be violent and harsh. For instance, Mary treats the plants with care and gentleness. On the contrary, Warren’s actions don’t include emotions, thus resulting in violent acts. To illustrate, “ Warren picked up a little stick, and brought it back And broke it in his hand and tossed it by” ( Frost, 122-123). Despite the calm movements of Mary, Warren’s merciless nature leads to cruel actions. Moreover, the attitudes in which the couple talk, convey’s a distinct divide between their personalities. As an illustration, Mary’s tone is genuine and represents her selfless character.

While discussing Silas’s situation with Warren, Mary states, “ What would you have him say? Surely you wouldn’t grudge the poor old man Some humble way to save his self-respect”( Frost, 48-50). Mary’s attitude towards Silas reveals sympathy and pity for his situation. However, Warren’s tone expresses sarcasm towards Silas. Warren declares, “He said he’d come to ditch the meadow for me”(Frost, Line 46). His tone is mocking the old man for his situation, regardless of the fact that Silas does not have the ability to perform this task. Without a doubt, Warren and Mary’s attitudes and actions depict the difference in their character’s identities. 

Lastly, the value of relationships, is a central concept of this poem. The manner in which Mary and Warren view relationships, differs in regards to thinking emotionally and logically. Warren views relationships practically, he views it as a contract, where only those deserving receive any sort of hospitality. When discussing Silas’s stay, Warren states, “Silas has walked that far no doubt today. Why doesn’t he go there? His brother’s rich, A somebody—director in the bank” 

( Frost, 127-129). He believes that Silas should stay with his brother, as they are blood-related. On the other hand, Mary considers relationships, emotionally, she values an individual on the basis of humanity, rather than worth or credibility. Upon replying to Warren’s statement about Silas’s brother, she says, “But have some pity on Silas. Do you think If he had any pride in claiming kin Or anything he looked for from his brother, He’d keep so still about him all this time”( Frost, 135-138)? Regardless of Warren’s perspective on relationships, Mary ponders emotionally and feels that Silas’s dignity has substantial value.

As a result, Warren and Mary’s personalities clearly depict a divide between their morals and values. The married individuals represent two contrasting sides on the spectrum of humanity. The striking differences in the married couples’ actions, desires, tone, and values contribute to the poem’s central message of marriage and its obstacles. In challenging situations, one’s opposing views can cause arguments and disagreements. It’s important to recognize these differences and communicate with others in order to resolve the situation.