The poet invokes the God of May primarily to request the renewal and revitalization of life in the natural world, specifically for plants and trees that have withered. This invocation is a fervent prayer for the return of vitality and the flourishing of nature.
Reasons for Invoking the God of May
The poet's invocation of the God of May is driven by a profound desire to witness the resurgence of life after a period of decline. The specific pleas include:
- Blessing for Withered Plants: To imbue the withered bodies of plants with the potent passion of renewal, essentially bringing them back to life.
- Revitalization of "Dead Veins": A prayer to restore life to the seemingly dead veins within plants, symbolizing a deep and fundamental reawakening.
- Granting Greenery to Trees: To bestow upon trees the "gift of green," signifying the return of lush foliage and the vibrant appearance of spring.
- Return of Birdsong: Ultimately, the renewal of plant life is sought so that birds can return to the verdant trees and fill the air with their songs, symbolizing a complete restoration of natural harmony and joy.
The Symbolism of May in Poetic Context
May has long been a powerful symbol in poetry, often representing:
- Spring and Rebirth: As the peak of spring, May embodies the triumph of life over winter's dormancy. It signifies new beginnings, fertility, and growth.
- Beauty and Joy: The month is associated with blooming flowers, lush landscapes, and a general sense of happiness and vibrancy, making it an ideal period to invoke for life's blessings.
- Hope and Restoration: For a poet lamenting withered nature, May serves as a beacon of hope, promising that vitality can always return.
Poetic Intent and Underlying Themes
The act of invoking the God of May reveals several key poetic intentions and themes:
- Desire for Restoration: It underscores a deep longing for the world to return to its state of natural beauty and abundance.
- Faith in Nature's Cycle: Despite the visible decay, there's an inherent faith that nature possesses an intrinsic capacity for self-renewal, often personified by deities or seasonal spirits.
- Connection Between Nature and Life: The poet highlights the interconnectedness of all life forms – plants provide shelter and sustenance, influencing the presence of birds and, by extension, the overall vibrancy of the environment.
- Optimism Amidst Despair: Even when confronted with witheredness, the poet chooses to appeal to a life-giving force, showcasing an optimistic outlook and belief in the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth.
Through this invocation, the poet expresses a profound appreciation for the life-giving forces of nature and a hopeful vision for the world's continuous renewal.
