The Road Not Taken and Journey to the Interior English Journeys Essay Example
The Road Not Taken and Journey to the Interior English Journeys Essay Example

The Road Not Taken and Journey to the Interior English Journeys Essay Example

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  • Pages: 3 (670 words)
  • Published: April 30, 2017
  • Type: Essay
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Both "The Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost and "Journey to the Interior" by Margaret Atwood explore the idea of journeys. Frost's poem delves into the decisions individuals make in life and the outcomes that result from these choices. Meanwhile, Atwood's poem highlights the inner and imaginative journey as well as the metaphorical physical journey. Together, these poems offer an alternative perspective on the significance of journeys, emphasizing that it is the process rather than the destination that truly matters. During a journey, knowledge is gained through experiences and obstacles are overcome, leading to personal growth.

In "Journey to the Interior," Margaret Atwood employs the Canadian landscape as a metaphor for exploring the self psychologically. The persona embarks on an imaginative and inner journey, resonating with many individuals in various aspects. Similarly

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, in The Road Not Taken, Frost utilizes paths as a metaphor for life overall. He expresses, "Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, And sorry I could not travel both And be one traveler, long I stood." Through these words, Frost elucidates being faced with a decision-making predicament.

The text indicates that some people spend time contemplating which choice would be the best when faced with a decision. It also illustrates how the main character was hesitant about which path to take, the less traveled one or the more familiar one. Atwood's persona is facing similar issues that are interconnected. "I notice: that the hills which the eyes make flat as a wall, welded together." The hills represent obstacles and symbolize her emotional struggle. The persona's problems and challenges are complex, with one issue leading to another.

Both personas, despite their differences,

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are facing challenges and striving to find a resolution. It is important to thoroughly consider decisions. Frost elaborates on this in the second stanza when he states, "Then took the other, as just as fair." This line emphasizes that Frost carefully weighed both paths and gave them equal consideration. Frost suggests that choices should not be made without careful deliberation, and one must evaluate both options comprehensively by weighing their pros and cons.

In “Journey to the Interior,” the persona has resolved to ask for assistance and conquer depression. The metaphor “A compass is useless; also trying to take directions from the movements of the sun, which are erratic; and words here are as pointless as calling in a vacant wilderness” demonstrates the individual nature of depression and suggests that seeking aid from a psychologist might be futile for her. Desperately seeking support, she struggles to comprehend the extent of her anguish.

Both individuals possess wisdom and make choices guided by their intuition and personal convictions. Certain journeys lack a predetermined endpoint, yet such expeditions offer great opportunities for growth. In the conclusion of the poem, Frost describes how the protagonist feels a sense of relief and certainty in having selected the correct route, affirming that choosing wisely "made all the difference" in the end. Although there were moments when the protagonist doubted their choices, ultimately these decisions propelled them further in life, ensuring that future generations will recount their remarkable tale.

In Atwood's poem, the persona did not reach their intended destination, but they gained wisdom from their internal voyage. They come to understand that it is simpler for them to remain lost indefinitely

and must maintain composure. Despite unresolved issues and ongoing depression, they resolve to be courageous and seize control of their existence. They have discovered the importance of seeking illumination in life. Both poets possess a remarkable talent for poetry, embarking on awe-inspiring and misleading journeys that are frequently misconstrued and underestimated, thus necessitating a more thorough analysis.

Life is full of unexpected outcomes and unforeseen circumstances. Our paths in life are diverse, serving the purpose of self-discovery or pure enjoyment. The journey itself holds greater significance than the desired outcome. Throughout our journeys, we encounter countless challenges that must be conquered to reach our intended destination. It is through these experiences that we acquire valuable wisdom.

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