Let's go back to the lines at the end of In Praise of Limestone: What I hear is the sound of underground streams / What I see is a limestone landscape. Close your eyes and try to imagine the shape of these lines. I see a falling, a descent, a softening, with the gentlest of landings at the end. And I feel resolution, calmness, and forgiveness.
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In Alexander McCall Smith's reflection on W. H. Auden, he draws attention to the concluding lines of Auden's poem "In Praise of Limestone." These lines evoke a vivid imagery that combines auditory and visual elements, encouraging readers to engage their imagination. McCall Smith interprets this imagery as depicting a gentle falling or descent into a serene landscape, suggesting a moment of tranquility and acceptance.
The atmosphere created by Auden's words resonates with feelings of calmness and resolution. McCall Smith emphasizes how these elements contribute to a sense of forgiveness and peace, illustrating the emotional depth that poetry can convey. The exploration of such simple yet profound images invites readers to reflect on their own experiences of solace and understanding through nature and art.
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