“To an Athlete Dying Young”, “Death Be Not Proud” Essay Example

This essay explores two poems: "To an Athlete Dying Young" by A. E Housman and "Death Be Not Proud" by John Donne. Both poets aim to convey their perspectives on death. In "Death Be Not Proud," Donne addresses death with bravery, letting it know that he is not afraid of passing on. Meanwhile, in "To an Athlete Dying Young," Housman expresses the idea of eternal glory, believing that if one dies before they can be defeated, they will forever be a winner. Ultimately, both poems portray death as an event that is not to be feared. Housman states, "smart chap.to steal betimes off from Fields where glory does not stay" (589) conveying the wisdom in dying early while still remembered by the community. Similarly, Donne minimizes death by comparing it to sleeping and asserts that it ca