Question

1. Compare the poems by Szymborska and Milosz read over the course of this unit. All are important twentieth century writers addressing a similar theme: death. Which poets address it in terms of the times they live in (and its threat of fascism) and which address it in a more personal way? Characterize each poet’s treatment of this theme, citing evidence from the poems. Respond in a paragraph. Answer is written in complete sentences.
-The poems are "A Contribution to Statistics" by Szymborska and "And Yet the Books" by Milosz.

Answer 1

Which poets address it in terms of the times they live in (and its threat of fascism) and which address it in a more personal way?

Answer: First we should know that both of these poet's had a bad experience in their lives, suffering similarly under tyranny and oppression during World War II, which shaped their perspective in very different ways. Milosz is the one that took it very personally and considered his life as emotionally destroyed while Szymborska looked at it as another chance at life that might never be given again. It is clear that the poet that addresses death in terms of the times they live in and as a threat of fascism is Milosz. This is apparent in the poem “City Without A Name”.

I hope this helps, Regards.