"Lullaby" - Auden

[hannah_t]

Hi everyone,

Am doing an extra research project on this for my English teacher. I've scoured the internet but am struggling to find anything of use, other than that it might be about either homosexul or hetrosexual love, which doesn't really help that much. Can anyone point me to any useful analysis sites which might give me some extra things to put in the presentation other than my own interpretation? I've analysed it thoroughly; am just looking for some extra things to put in that I may have missed :)

Thanks!

[OrphanPip]

I'm guessing you're probably in high school so you don't have access to databases?

I wouldn't concentrate too much on whether Auden is writing about homosexual or heterosexual love, it's probably homosexual given Auden's orientation. The poem can be about any kind of forbidden "immoral" love without having to specifically deal with homosexuality, which isn't specified within the poem. Try looking up some autobiographical information on Auden's opinions of faith, which could help you interpret how religious metaphors are being used.

Wish I could be more help, but I love the first stanza of the poem and wish you luck on your project.

"Lay your sleeping head, my love,
Human on my faithless arm;
Time and fevers burn away
Individual beauty from
Thoughtful children, and the grave
Proves the child ephemeral:
But in my arms till break of day
Let the living creature lie,
Mortal, guilty, but to me
The entirely beautiful."

[hannah_t]

HI, and thank you :) Yes, I'm in 6th form college (last year before uni!). Am doing the Literature A Level in a year which is why I gather extra work from my teacher ;)

You are help enough, will certainly research Auden's faith tomorrow. That's a good second angle, rather than just focussing on the loving relationship between the couple!

[Pryderi Agni]

Based on the theme given by OrphanPip above, you could also analyse the religious reaction to homosexuality and the homosexuals' viewpoint on the issue. Would make a great introductory essay of sorts.

[hannah_t]

Good idea :) Thank you!