Question

Explain the following:
'Cold, impossible, ahead
Lists the mountain's lovely head.'

Hint:

Pay close attention to word choice and contrast in poetry. The juxtaposition of "impossible" and "lovely" is the key to understanding the complex emotions the poet is conveying about the scene.

Answer 1

These lines, from Walter de la Mare's poetry, paint a vivid picture of a traveller's perspective of a daunting yet beautiful natural landscape.
The first line, "Cold, impossible, ahead," captures the feeling of challenge and forbiddance. The journey forward seems harsh, freezing, and perhaps insurmountable. The mountain represents a significant obstacle that the traveller must face.
However, the second line, "Lists the mountain's lovely head," introduces a striking contrast. Despite being an "impossible" barrier, the mountain's peak is described as "lovely," suggesting grace, beauty, and majesty. The word "Lists" can mean to lean or tilt, giving the mountain a sense of dynamic presence. Together, the lines encapsulate the dual nature of nature: it can be both intimidating and awe-inspiring, a formidable challenge and a thing of profound beauty.