In the poem "Snake," D.H. Lawrence explores the theme of human-animal communication and the power dynamics between humans and nature. Through vivid imagery and figurative language, Lawrence portrays the snake as a symbol of wildness and instinct, while the speaker in the poem represents the civilized, rational human.
The poem begins with the speaker encountering a snake in the garden, and the speaker's initial reaction is one of fear and disgust. The snake is described as "old/and golden," suggesting that it is wise and ancient, but the speaker sees it as "a snake that charmed me from sleep." This line suggests that the snake has a hypnotic, almost magical quality, and that it has the ability to entrance the speaker.
However, as the poem progresses, the speaker's attitude towards the snake begins to shift. Rather than reacting with fear, the speaker becomes intrigued by the snake and begins to engage in a conversation with it. The snake speaks to the speaker in "a voice as big as a bell," which suggests that it has a deep, resonant presence that is not to be ignored.
The speaker's transformation is further demonstrated through their use of the pronoun "you." At the beginning of the poem, the speaker refers to the snake as "it," suggesting that they do not see the snake as a sentient being with its own thoughts and feelings. However, as the conversation continues, the speaker begins to use the pronoun "you," indicating that they are now treating the snake as a fellow being worthy of respect.
The theme of communication is central to the poem, as the speaker and the snake engage in a dialogue that breaks down the barriers between humans and nature. Through this exchange, the speaker learns to see the snake as a fellow creature, rather than as a mindless, dangerous animal.
The power dynamics between humans and nature are also explored in the poem. The speaker initially sees the snake as something to be feared and controlled, but as the conversation continues, the roles begin to reverse. The snake speaks with a sense of authority and wisdom, while the speaker becomes more humble and receptive. This shift suggests that humans do not always have control over nature and that we can learn from the natural world if we are willing to listen.
In conclusion, "Snake" by D.H. Lawrence is a thought-provoking exploration of human-animal communication and the power dynamics between humans and nature. Through vivid imagery and figurative language, Lawrence portrays the snake as a symbol of wildness and instinct, while the speaker represents the civilized, rational human. The poem invites readers to consider the ways in which we interact with the natural world and to question the assumptions we make about other creatures.