Question

In the “Raven” by Edgar Allen Poe. Explain why the narrator of the poem says: “Surely there is something at my window lattice; let me see then what thereat is, and this mystery explore—Let my heart be still moment and this mystery explore”? What does the window symbolize or represent? Why is the poet allowing the raven in? What is the mystery? Why does the poet have to be silent?

Answer 1

The poet is struggling to cope with the death of the poet’s loved one Lenore. So, is not able accept that she is not with him. Raven symbolizes death and it can also be viewed as wisdom. So, when the poet sees the raven, initially he was frightened because of its association with death and its scary figure. When he opens the window and let the raven in, the poet symbolically suggests that he has opened his heart and accepted the fact that Lenore in nevermore which is the only word the raven utters. Thus, the poet understands that death is the only thing that human beings cannot escape but just accept it gracefully. So, when the raven enters through the window, the poet starts listening and becomes silent.