W.B. Yeats - Poems

This blog is written as a task assigned by the head of the Department of English (MKBU), Prof. and Dr. Dilip Barad Sir. Here is the link to the professor's research article for background reading: Click here

          William Butler Yeats 

Full Name	William Butler Yeats
Birth	June 13, 1865, in Sandymount, Dublin, Iceland
Death	January 28, 1939, in Menton, France
Burial	Initially buried in France, his remains were later reinterred in Drumcliff, County Sligo, Ireland, in 1948 kg
Education	Attended the Metropolitan School of Art in Dublin (now the National College of Art and Design)
Occupations	Poet, playwright, dramatist, and mystic
Literary Movements	Key figure in the Irish Literary Revival and Modernist literature
Key Themes	Explored Irish mythology, symbolism, mysticism, and nationalism in his works
Notable Works	Poetry: The Lake Isle of Innisfree, Sailing to Byzantium, The Second Coming, The Tower
Awards	Received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1923
Organizations	Co-founded the Abbey Theatre in Dublin
Legacy	Celebrated as one of the greatest poets in the English language and a central figure in modernist literature

Question: 1. Compare the treatment of war in On Being Asked for a War Poem with other war poems by Wilfred Owen or Siegfried Sassoon.

Answer: The Treatment of War in Yeats' On Being Asked for a War Poem Compared to the Works of Wilfred Owen and Siegfried Sassoon

War has been a potent theme in literature, inspiring poets to capture the chaos, sacrifice, and futility of conflict. W.B. Yeats’ On Being Asked for a War Poem offers a perspective that contrasts sharply with the visceral portrayals of war by Wilfred Owen and Siegfried Sassoon, two of the most iconic war poets of the 20th century. This blog explores the treatment of war in Yeats’ restrained and philosophical poem and juxtaposes it with the vivid, harrowing depictions found in the works of Owen and Sassoon.

Yeats’ On Being Asked for a War Poem: A Stance of Silence

W.B. Yeats, known for his lyricism and metaphysical concerns, distanced himself from writing about World War I. In On Being Asked for a War Poem, Yeats explains his refusal to engage with the subject:

 “I think it better that in times like these

A poet’s mouth be silent, for in truth

We have no gift to set a statesman right...”

Yeats’ perspective reveals his belief that poetry should transcend politics and warfare. He perceives the act of writing war poetry as futile in influencing political decisions or comforting those engulfed by tragedy. The poem is introspective and understated, emphasizing the role of the poet as an observer rather than a propagandist or chronicler of war’s horrors.

Yeats’ approach is marked by his aversion to graphic descriptions of war. Instead, he focuses on the limitations of art in addressing large-scale human suffering. His detachment from war contrasts significantly with the intense engagement of Wilfred Owen and Siegfried Sassoon, who lived through the trenches and used poetry as a medium to critique war and its glorification.

Wilfred Owen: The Pity of War

Wilfred Owen’s poetry immerses the reader in the grim realities of war. Unlike Yeats, Owen does not shy away from portraying its brutality and dehumanization. In his seminal poem Dulce et Decorum Est, Owen exposes the romanticized notion of war as noble and heroic:

“If you could hear, at every jolt, the blood

Come gargling from the froth-corrupted lungs...”

Owen’s graphic imagery and use of sensory detail leave an indelible mark. The poem dismantles the myth of war as “sweet and proper” by showing its grotesque physical and psychological toll. His focus on the pity of war—its futility, waste of life, and the suffering it inflicts—stands in stark contrast to Yeats’ restrained, almost abstract, treatment.

In Anthem for Doomed Youth, Owen underscores the loss of a generation through the metaphor of a funeral, devoid of traditional rites:

 “What passing-bells for these who die as cattle?”

The comparison between soldiers and cattle reveals the industrialized slaughter of human lives. Owen’s poetry is steeped in anger and sorrow, aiming to evoke empathy and outrage. Unlike Yeats, he engages directly with the horrors of war, ensuring that its brutality is neither forgotten nor sanitized.

Siegfried Sassoon: The Voice of Protest

Siegfried Sassoon complements Owen’s vision but adds an element of satire and anger. His works often critique the institutions and individuals responsible for perpetuating war. In The General, Sassoon mocks the incompetence of military leadership:

 

“‘He’s a cheery old card,’ grunted Harry to Jack

As they slogged up to Arras with rifle and pack.”

The juxtaposition of the general’s cheeriness with the soldiers’ suffering highlights the disconnect between those in power and those bearing the brunt of their decisions. Sassoon’s sharp wit and scathing tone are absent in Yeats’ contemplative stance.

In Suicide in the Trenches, Sassoon paints a tragic picture of a young soldier who succumbs to despair:

“You smug-faced crowds with kindling eye

Who cheer when soldier lads march by...”

Sassoon’s anger is not only directed at the war but also at the public’s ignorance and complicity. His poetry is a call to action, demanding accountability and awareness. While Yeats views poetry as a realm removed from the chaos of war, Sassoon uses it as a weapon to confront the very forces Yeats avoids engaging.

Points of Divergence

1. Role of the Poet:

Yeats emphasizes the poet’s role as separate from political commentary, whereas Owen and Sassoon see poetry as a moral and social responsibility to expose the truth.

2. Tone and Imagery:

Yeats’ tone is contemplative and philosophical, avoiding graphic descriptions. In contrast, Owen and Sassoon employ vivid, shocking imagery to capture the horrors of war.

3. Purpose:

Yeats aims for a timeless, universal message about the limitations of art. Owen and Sassoon focus on the immediate, aiming to challenge public perceptions and inspire change.

4. Engagement with War:

Yeats maintains an outsider’s perspective, while Owen and Sassoon write as participants and witnesses, imbuing their works with authenticity and urgency.

Conclusion

The treatment of war in poetry is shaped by the poet’s context, perspective, and purpose. W.B. Yeats’ On Being Asked for a War Poem reflects a detached, philosophical approach, emphasizing the futility of artistic intervention in times of crisis. In contrast, Wilfred Owen and Siegfried Sassoon confront the horrors of war head-on, using poetry as a medium to critique, memorialize, and protest.

While Yeats’ stance raises important questions about the limits of poetry, the works of Owen and Sassoon remind us of its power to bear witness and demand accountability. Together, these

 poets offer a multifaceted exploration of war, enriching our understanding of its impact on humanity.

Question:2.Write a modernist-inspired poem reflecting on a contemporary global crisis, drawing on Yeats’s themes and techniques. [Generate with the help of Gen AIlike ChatGPT or Google Gemini or Meta WhatsApp or Microsoft Co-pilot].

Answer:

Modernist poetry, characterized by its fragmented structure, symbolic imagery, and introspection, offers a potent framework for exploring contemporary global crises. Drawing inspiration from W.B. Yeats’ themes of chaos, cyclical history, and the role of art, this blog delves into a modernist-inspired poem addressing climate change—a pressing global concern.

This reflective piece emulates Yeats’ techniques and themes, offering a poetic meditation on the ecological and existential anxieties of our age.

The Poem: A Cracked Horizon

A Cracked Horizon

The sea recoils, retreating from burnt shores,

A mirror cracked, its shards laced with tar.

Trees gasp in their stillness—roots severed

From the whispering soil of yesteryears.

“This is the way,” they said,

“Progress marches with engines,

And rivers of black oil feed our future.”

But the air, once velvet with song,

Chokes on its own forgetting.

A falcon spirals, shadow in the smog,

Circling a sun veiled in ash—

The gyres collapse inward.

What rough beast, starved and unyielding,

Slouches toward a drowned tomorrow?

In the cities, light flickers on glass towers,

Towers that reach for heavens

Now scorched and silent.

Poets scrawl elegies on walls

As tides rise to claim their ink.

Will the artist’s brush, the poet’s pen

Mend the broken skin of this earth?

Or is the wound too deep,

Too vast for words or art to heal?

Analysis: Drawing on Yeats’ Techniques

1. Thematic Parallels: Chaos and Cyclical History

The poem reflects Yeats’ recurrent theme of cyclical destruction, as seen in The Second Coming. The “gyres collapse inward” directly references Yeats’ theory of history as a series of spiraling cycles, with each collapse marking a shift toward chaos.

Yeats’ Influence: In The Second Coming, Yeats envisions a world unraveling:

“Things fall apart; the centre cannot hold;

Mere anarchy is loosed upon the world.”

Similarly, A Cracked Horizon portrays a world where ecological destruction signals the collapse of natural and societal orders.

Contemporary Relevance: The poem aligns Yeats’ vision with the modern crisis of climate change, where humanity’s relentless pursuit of progress disrupts natural cycles and threatens global stability.

2. Symbolism and Imagery

Yeats’ poetry is rich in symbolism, blending mythological and natural elements. A Cracked Horizon employs similar techniques:

The Falcon: Echoing The Second Coming, the falcon represents a loss of control and harmony. In the modern context, it becomes a shadowy figure, trapped in a polluted world.

The Cracked Mirror and Burnt Shores: These images symbolize environmental degradation and the fracturing of humanity’s relationship with nature.

The Rough Beast: Borrowed from Yeats’ apocalyptic vision, the beast in this poem becomes a symbol of unchecked industrialization and ecological neglect.

3. Ambiguity and Philosophical Reflection

Yeats often leaves his poems open-ended, inviting readers to ponder existential questions. In A Cracked Horizon, the closing lines ask whether art can heal the wounds inflicted on the earth.

Yeats’ Ambiguity: In Lapis Lazuli, Yeats muses on the resilience of art amid destruction:

 

“All things fall and are built again,

And those that build them again are gay.”

Similarly, this poem questions the role of art in addressing modern crises but remains uncertain of its efficacy.

4. Modernist Techniques: Fragmentation and Tone

The fragmented structure and shifts in tone mirror modernist aesthetics:

Fragmentation: The poem moves from the natural world to urban landscapes, reflecting the disjointed experience of living in a climate crisis.

Tone: The poem balances elegiac sorrow with restrained hope, mirroring Yeats’ own oscillation between despair and faith in art’s enduring power.

Climate Change as the Modern “Rough Beast”

In writing this poem, the intention was to position climate change as the modern equivalent of Yeats’ “rough beast.” The ecological crisis mirrors the apocalyptic undertones of Yeats’ works, with the planet’s rising temperatures, melting ice caps, and species extinction serving as harbingers of a world spiraling toward collapse.

Progress as Destruction: The poem critiques the paradox of human progress, where technological advancement often comes at the cost of environmental degradation. The “rivers of black oil” symbolize the lifeblood of industrialization, now suffocating the earth.

Nature’s Voice: The imagery of trees and seas mourning their lost vitality underscores the disconnect between humanity and the natural world, a recurring concern in Yeats’ poetry.

The Role of the Poet in Crisis

Following Yeats’ meditations in On Being Asked for a War Poem, the poem grapples with the poet’s role in addressing global crises. Can poetry, art, or any form of creative expression effect real change, or is it merely a tool for documenting loss?

Yeats’ Skepticism: In On Being Asked for a War Poem, Yeats refrains from addressing war directly, doubting poetry’s ability to “set a statesman right.” This skepticism is echoed in A Cracked Horizon, where the poet questions whether words can mend the earth’s wounds.

Art as Witness: Despite its doubts, the poem affirms the importance of bearing witness. The “poets scrawl elegies on walls” becomes a metaphor for the act of documenting and resisting destruction, even when the outcome is uncertain.

Conclusion

“A Cracked Horizon” draws heavily on W.B. Yeats’ themes and techniques to explore the existential dread of climate change. Like Yeats, it blends myth, symbolism, and philosophical inquiry to confront a world in flux.

While Yeats’ poetry often suggests that history and destruction are inevitable, it also gestures toward the resilience of art. This modernist-inspired poem carries forward that duality, urging readers to reflect on their role in a crisis that transcends borders, while questioning whether art can offer solace or solutions in an age of ecological collapse.

In the spirit of modernist poetry, the piece leaves its questions unanswered, inviting contemplation rather than closure. As Yeats himself once wrote:

 “Man can embody truth, but he cannot know it.”

Question:3.Do you agree with Yeats’s assertion in 'On Being Asked for a War Poem' that poetry should remain apolitical? Why or why not?

Answer: 

W.B. Yeats, one of the foremost poets of the 20th century, expressed in On Being Asked for a War Poem that poetry should remain detached from political events. His belief, articulated during World War I, reflects a view that poetry’s purpose transcends the political realm and addresses universal truths rather than immediate crises. But in a world shaped by social upheavals and global crises, is Yeats’ assertion still relevant? Should poetry remain apolitical, or does it have a responsibility to engage with the pressing issues of its time?

This blog critically examines Yeats’ stance, considers counterarguments, and explores the evolving role of poetry in the modern age.

Yeats’ View: The Case for Apolitical Poetry

In On Being Asked for a War Poem, Yeats explains his reluctance to write about World War I:

“I think it better that in times like these

A poet’s mouth be silent, for in truth

We have no gift to set a statesman right...”

1. The Poet’s Role as Transcendent Observer

Yeats saw poetry as a means to explore timeless truths and spiritual insights rather than temporary political concerns. For him, art was a vessel for beauty, imagination, and metaphysical reflection, not propaganda or activism. He believed that poetry rooted in immediate political contexts risked losing its universality and aesthetic value.

Yeats’ Artistic Philosophy: Yeats was deeply influenced by his fascination with myth, symbolism, and esotericism, which often took precedence over political matters. His poetry, such as The Tower and The Wild Swans at Coole, demonstrates this focus on themes of mortality, personal struggle, and cyclical history.

2. The Limitations of Poetry in Political Change

Yeats’ claim that poets lack “the gift to set a statesman right” reveals his skepticism about poetry’s ability to effect tangible change in political systems. He viewed political action as a realm of pragmatism, while poetry thrived in the imaginative and symbolic.

Counterarguments: The Case for Political Poetry

While Yeats’ perspective has merit, many poets throughout history have demonstrated the power of political poetry. The following arguments challenge Yeats’ assertion that poetry should remain apolitical:

1. Poetry as a Tool for Protest and Advocacy

From the war poets of World War I to contemporary voices addressing climate change, poetry has served as a platform for resistance and awareness. Wilfred Owen and Siegfried Sassoon, Yeats’ contemporaries, directly challenged the glorification of war through their harrowing depictions of its horrors.

Wilfred Owen’s Dulce et Decorum Est: This iconic poem dismantles the myth of war’s nobility:

“The old Lie: Dulce et decorum est

Pro patria mori.”

Owen’s work demonstrates how poetry can confront propaganda and provoke critical thinking about political narratives.

2. The Universal in the Political

While political events are specific to time and place, their impact often carries universal resonance. Wars, revolutions, and social movements shape collective human experiences, making them fertile ground for poetic exploration.

Examples from History:

Pablo Neruda’s Canto General captures the struggles of Latin America, blending political critique with lyrical beauty.

Langston Hughes used poetry to address racism and inequality in the United States, influencing the civil rights movement.

3. The Poet’s Responsibility to Engage

In times of crisis, silence can be complicit. Poets, as members of society, have a moral obligation to respond to injustice and suffering. Poetry’s emotional power can inspire action, empathy, and solidarity, bridging the gap between art and activism.

Adrienne Rich’s Perspective: Rich believed that art must confront social and political realities:

“Poetry is not a luxury. It is a vital necessity of our existence.”

Modern Perspectives on the Role of Poetry

The debate about poetry’s political role is ongoing, shaped by the complexities of the modern world.

1. Contemporary Political Poets

Many contemporary poets reject Yeats’ apolitical stance, using their craft to address urgent global issues such as climate change, racial inequality, and human rights. For instance:

Amanda Gorman: Her poem The Hill We Climb, delivered at Joe Biden’s inauguration, embodies poetry’s ability to inspire hope and unity in politically charged times.

Margaret Atwood: Through her poetry and prose, Atwood tackles feminist and ecological themes, illustrating how art can critique power structures.

2. Poetry in the Digital Age

The rise of social media has amplified the reach of political poetry. Short, impactful verses addressing current events now resonate with global audiences, proving that poetry can adapt to and influence modern political discourse.

Reconciling Yeats’ View with Modern Realities

Yeats’ assertion that poetry should remain apolitical can be understood in the context of his time. He sought to protect the aesthetic and philosophical purity of poetry, fearing that overt political engagement might compromise its artistic integrity. However, his perspective need not exclude the possibility of poetry addressing universal human concerns through political themes.

A Balanced Approach:

Artistic Autonomy: Poetry should not be reduced to propaganda but can incorporate political themes without losing its aesthetic value.

Universal Resonance: By framing political issues in broader, humanistic terms, poets can achieve both relevance and timelessness.

Diverse Roles: Poets, like all artists, should have the freedom to choose their level of engagement with political matters.

Conclusion

Yeats’ view in On Being Asked for a War Poem raises important questions about the purpose of poetry and the poet’s role in society. While his emphasis on transcendence and universality remains valuable, the power of political poetry to challenge injustice and foster empathy cannot be dismissed.

In a world grappling with climate change, social inequality, and global conflicts, poetry’s ability to give voice to the voiceless and inspire change is more vital than ever. Ultimately, whether a poet chooses to remain apolitical or politically engaged, the value of their work lies in its ability to resonate with the complexities of the human experience.

As Yeats himself wrote in The Second Coming:

“Surely some revelation is

 at hand...”

Perhaps that revelation lies in poetry’s capacity to both transcend and transform the world it inhabits.

Question:4.How does Yeats use imagery to convey a sense of disintegration in 'The Second Coming'?

Answer:

W.B. Yeats’ The Second Coming is a seminal modernist poem that captures the spiritual, political, and social disintegration of the post-World War I era. With its apocalyptic tone and vivid imagery, Yeats portrays a world unraveling, its moral and societal structures collapsing. The poem’s rich symbolic framework and evocative language serve to communicate a sense of chaos, despair, and inevitable transformation.

In this blog, we will explore how Yeats employs imagery to convey this pervasive sense of disintegration, linking his vision to the historical and philosophical context of the poem.

The Historical Context: A World Falling Apart

Written in 1919, The Second Coming reflects Yeats’ response to the devastation of World War I, the Russian Revolution, and the Irish War of Independence. These events symbolized, for Yeats, a collapse of the established order, ushering in a new, uncertain epoch. The poem’s imagery is rooted in this historical context, reflecting a world spiraling out of control.

Yeats’ use of the gyre as a central metaphor illustrates his belief in cyclical history, drawn from his esoteric philosophy detailed in A Vision. According to Yeats, human history progresses in 2,000-year cycles, each ending in chaos and giving way to a new, often darker, age. The imagery in The Second Coming encapsulates this transition, portraying a civilization disintegrating as it approaches the end of its cycle.

Key Imagery of Disintegration

1. The Falcon and the Falconer: The Loss of Control

“Turning and turning in the widening gyre

The falcon cannot hear the falconer...”

The image of the falcon flying beyond the falconer’s call symbolizes a loss of control and the breakdown of communication between authority and subject, tradition and innovation, humanity and its guiding principles.

Symbolism of the Gyre: The “widening gyre” represents the unraveling of established systems, suggesting that humanity has drifted too far from its moral and spiritual center.

Disconnection and Fragmentation: The falcon’s separation from the falconer epitomizes the disintegration of coherence and harmony in society, echoing Yeats’ broader concerns about the dissolution of tradition.

2. The Image of Anarchy: The Collapse of Order

“Things fall apart; the centre cannot hold;

Mere anarchy is loosed upon the world...”

These lines encapsulate the essence of the poem’s apocalyptic vision. The image of the “centre” collapsing conveys the dissolution of societal structures, values, and stability.

Anarchy as a Visual Force: Yeats uses the term “mere anarchy” not to diminish its impact but to emphasize its raw, uncontainable nature. The phrase evokes an image of chaos flooding the world, overwhelming humanity’s attempts to maintain order.

Universality of Disintegration: By leaving the imagery open-ended, Yeats allows readers to project their own visions of collapse, whether political, spiritual, or cultural.

3. The Blood-Dimmed Tide: Violence and Chaos

“The blood-dimmed tide is loosed, and everywhere

The ceremony of innocence is drowned...”

The “blood-dimmed tide” is a powerful visual metaphor for the violence, destruction, and moral decay engulfing the world.

Imagery of Drowning: The drowning of innocence suggests the overwhelming force of corruption and the obliteration of purity and ideals.

Global Despair: This image transcends specific events, presenting a universal vision of human suffering and the inevitability of collective downfall.

4. The Rough Beast: The Birth of a New Age

 “And what rough beast, its hour come round at last,

Slouches towards Bethlehem to be born?”

The “rough beast” is one of Yeats’ most enigmatic and haunting images, symbolizing the arrival of a new, monstrous age.

Ambiguity and Terror: The beast’s undefined nature heightens its menace, representing an era of uncertainty, brutality, and moral inversion.

Bethlehem as a Symbol: By referencing Bethlehem, the birthplace of Christ, Yeats juxtaposes the birth of a savior with the arrival of an apocalyptic figure, suggesting the cyclical nature of history and the duality of creation and destruction.

Techniques Enhancing the Imagery

1. Symbolism

Yeats’ imagery is deeply symbolic, drawing on mythology, religion, and his own esoteric beliefs. The falcon, the gyre, and the rough beast are not just descriptive elements but metaphors for larger historical and spiritual forces.

2. Contrast

Yeats contrasts images of collapse (the blood-dimmed tide, drowning innocence) with images of rebirth (the rough beast), emphasizing the cyclical nature of disintegration and renewal.

3. Ambiguity

The vagueness of certain images, such as the rough beast, allows for multiple interpretations, making the poem’s vision of disintegration both personal and universal.

4. Sound and Rhythm

The poem’s incantatory rhythm and repetition (“Turning and turning,” “Surely some revelation is at hand”) create a sense of inevitability, reinforcing the relentless motion of the gyre and the disintegration it brings.

Conclusion: The Power of Imagery in Conveying Disintegration

Through The Second Coming, Yeats masterfully uses imagery to depict a world on the brink of collapse. The falcon, the blood-dimmed tide, and the rough beast are more than just visual elements; they are symbols of humanity’s fractured state and the inexorable march of history.

By combining symbolic imagery with universal themes, Yeats transcends his historical moment, creating a poem that remains relevant in today’s world of political turmoil, social unrest, and ecological crises. The sense of disintegration in The Second Coming is not confined to the early 20th century but speaks to the timeless cycles of chaos and renewal that define human existence.

As we face our own modern “rough beasts,” Yeats’ imagery serves as a powerful reminder of both the fragility and resilience of civilization.

References : 

Barad, Dilip. “W.B. Yeats Poems.” Dilip Barad | Teacher Blog, 20 May 2021, blog.dilipbarad.com/2021/05/whauden-poems.html.

---. “W.B. Yeats’s Poems: The Second Coming - and - On Being Asked for a War Poem.” ResearchGate, Jan. 2025, dx.doi.org/10.13140/RG.2.2.17299.18720.

Yeats, William Butler. “On being asked for a War Poem.” Poetry Foundation, 1916, www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/57313/on-being-asked-for-a-war-poem.

---. “The Second Coming.” Poetry Foundation, 1920, www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/43290/the-second-coming.

THANK YOU 😊!

Charlie Chaplin’s “Modern Times”

 Charlie Chaplin 

Full Name: Sir Charles Spencer Chaplin Jr.

Born: April 16, 1889, London, England.

Died: December 25, 1977, Vevey, Switzerland.

Profession: Actor, filmmaker, comedian, and composer.

Famous Character: The Tramp—an icon of silent film comedy.

Notable Films: The Kid (1921), The Gold Rush (1925), City Lights (1931), Modern Times (1936), The Great Dictator (1940).

Achievements: Co-founded United Artists (1919), Honorary Academy Award (1972), knighted in 1975.

Legacy: Pioneer of silent cinema, blending comedy with social commentary.

Controversy: Exiled from the U.S. during the McCarthy era for alleged communist sympathies.

Personal Life: Married four times, 11 children.

 Modern Times

1. Title and Release:

Modern Times is a silent comedy film written, directed, and produced by Charlie Chaplin.

Release Date: February 25, 1936 (USA).

2. Genre and Style:

A blend of comedy, satire, and social commentary.

It is considered Chaplin's last "silent" film, though it includes synchronized sound effects and Chaplin’s voice in a nonsensical song.

3. Plot Overview:

The film follows the Tramp (played by Chaplin), who struggles to survive in a highly industrialized and dehumanizing society.

It portrays his misadventures as he navigates factory jobs, imprisonment, and a quest for happiness with a homeless woman (played by Paulette Goddard).

4. Key Themes:

The dehumanizing effects of industrialization and mechanization.

The struggles of the working class during the Great Depression.

The critique of capitalism and mass production.

The resilience of human spirit amidst economic and social hardships.

5. Cultural and Historical Context:

Modern Times was released during the Great Depression, reflecting the socio-economic challenges of the 1930s.

It critiques the labor conditions of the time, such as monotonous factory work and unemployment.

6. Innovative Features:

Though primarily a silent film, it incorporates sound effects and music composed by Chaplin himself.

The nonsensical song sung by the Tramp is one of the first instances of Chaplin's voice on film.

7. Reception and Legacy:

The film received critical acclaim for its humor, poignant social commentary, and Chaplin's performance.

It remains a timeless classic, symbolizing the struggles of humanity against technological and economic oppression.

Modern Times is preserved in the U.S. National Film Registry for being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant."

8. Memorable Scenes:

The Tramp being caught in the gears of a machine.

The feeding machine sequence, satirizing automation and efficiency.

The nonsensical singing scene, symbolizing the breakdown of language and communication in a mechanized world.

Movie Screening: Chanya Button's Vita & Virginia

This blog task is assigned by Prakruti Bhatt Ma'am (Department of English, MKBU).   

  Chanya Button's Vita & Virginia

Category	Details
Title	Vita & Virginia
Theatrical Release Poster	![Poster not shown here]
Directed by	Chanya Button
Written by	Eileen Atkins, Chanya Button
Based on	Vita & Virginia by Eileen Atkins
Produced by	Evangelo Kioussis, Katie Holly, Shashank Shambharkar
Starring	Gemma Arterton, Elizabeth Debicki, Rupert Penry-Jones, Peter Ferdinando, Gethin Anthony, Emerald Fennell, Adam Gillen, Karla Crome, Rory Fleck Byrne, Nathan Stewart-Jarrett, Isabella Rossellini
Cinematography	Carlos De Carvalho
Edited by	Mark Trend
Music by	Isobel Waller-Bridge
Production Companies	Bl!nder Films, Mirror Productions, Protagonist Pictures, Mehra Entertainment, LipSync Productions, Rather Good Films Ltd, Screen Ireland
Distributed by	Thunderbird Releasing
Release Dates	11 September 2018 (TIFF), 5 July 2019 (UK and Ireland)
Running Time	110 minutes
Countries	United Kingdom, Ireland
Language	English
Box Office	$789,095

Vita and Virginia - Official Trailer I HD I IFC Films

Question : 1) How do the letters function not only as a medium of communication between the two central characters but also as narrative tool within the film?

Answer : 

The Epistolary Pulse of Passion and Storytelling in Vita & Virginia

The 2018 biographical drama Vita & Virginia, directed by Chanya Button and based on Eileen Atkins' play of the same name, explores the intimate and intellectual relationship between two iconic literary figures—Vita Sackville-West and Virginia Woolf. Central to the film’s narrative structure is the use of letters, which are not merely historical artifacts or plot devices but function as an integral narrative tool. These letters serve multiple purposes: they foster a profound emotional and psychological connection between the protagonists, convey complex inner states, drive the storyline, and stylistically evoke a period-specific yet timeless mode of romantic and philosophical exchange.

1. Letters as a Medium of Communication

At the heart of the film lies the real-life correspondence between Vita and Virginia, which spanned nearly two decades. In the context of the film, these letters allow the characters to transcend societal and personal boundaries. Living in an era where same-sex relationships were taboo, the written word became a safer and more intimate realm for expressing desires, frustrations, vulnerabilities, and intellectual companionship. Through letters, Vita and Virginia communicate more freely than they often do in person. Their writing becomes an emotional bridge, allowing them to reach into each other’s inner worlds with a clarity and honesty that spoken conversation cannot always achieve.

Letters allow Vita to pursue Virginia with charm and intensity, while Virginia, often more reserved and cerebral, finds in writing a space to articulate her complex feelings, fears, and inspirations. The act of writing—so essential to both women as authors—becomes entwined with their romantic expression. Hence, communication through letters reflects both their personalities and their evolving relationship.

2. Letters as a Narrative Device

From a cinematic perspective, letters offer a unique storytelling mechanism. In Vita & Virginia, they serve as an epistolary narration—a technique reminiscent of classic literature where plots unfold through correspondence. Director Chanya Button transforms these written exchanges into scenes of voiced-over narration, often with the characters visually present on screen in different settings, engaging in their daily lives while their thoughts echo through voice. This dual layer—visual and auditory—creates a lyrical narrative that immerses the audience in both the interior and exterior lives of the characters.

The use of letters also permits non-linear storytelling. Since letters can be read, reflected upon, and even re-read at different points, they offer the filmmakers a tool for revisiting emotions, foreshadowing future events, or revealing secrets that are withheld in dialogue. The structure of the film, therefore, mirrors the rhythm of correspondence—pauses, delays, responses, and silences—all of which deepen the emotional resonance.

3. A Window into Interior Worlds

Another powerful function of letters in the film is their capacity to reveal internal landscapes. For Virginia, whose mental health struggles and introspective nature are sensitively portrayed, writing is a cathartic outlet. Her letters reflect the intellectual intensity and poetic depth of her thoughts, and the film uses these moments to delve into her psyche. This is particularly evident in scenes where her letter becomes a stream of consciousness—foreshadowing Orlando, the novel she eventually writes inspired by Vita.

Likewise, Vita’s letters showcase her boldness, flamboyance, and desire to liberate herself from conventional roles. They express not just romantic interest but a longing for recognition and freedom, themes central to her own writing and public persona.

By presenting the letters as direct addresses, the film sometimes breaks the fourth wall, inviting viewers to witness the raw authenticity of each woman's inner self. This device encourages empathy and creates an emotional intimacy between the audience and the characters.

4. Letters as Legacy and Literary Inspiration

Beyond personal and narrative functions, the letters in Vita & Virginia point to a broader literary and cultural legacy. Their relationship, immortalized through epistolary evidence, gave birth to one of Woolf’s most imaginative works—Orlando. The film draws a parallel between Virginia's emotional journey and her creative output, illustrating how the relationship with Vita profoundly influenced her art. The letters are thus positioned not only as part of their private relationship but as catalysts in the creative process, blurring the line between life and literature.

5. Stylistic and Thematic Resonance

Stylistically, the film’s use of the epistolary form pays homage to the period it represents while also modernizing it through visual and auditory techniques. The inclusion of modern electronic music, stylized visuals, and expressive cinematography complements the poetic rhythm of the letters, creating a bridge between the early 20th century and contemporary sensibilities. This juxtaposition underlines the timelessness of love, identity, and self-expression—themes that the letters help to explore.

Conclusion

In Vita & Virginia, letters are not passive documents; they are living dialogues that shape, reveal, and advance the story. They allow the protagonists to articulate what they cannot always say aloud, making visible the invisible tensions of desire, doubt, creativity, and courage. As a narrative device, the letters enrich the film’s structure, offering insight into character development, emotional nuance, and literary genesis. Ultimately, they function as both the heartbeat of a love story and the spine of a sophisticated, layered narrative.

Question : 2) Discuss some of the views regarding marriage, relationship and the role of society presented by the various characters in the film.

Answer : 

Exploring Views on Marriage, Relationships, and Society in Vita & Virginia

Chanya Button’s Vita & Virginia (2018) is more than a cinematic portrayal of a historical romance—it is a profound exploration of the conflicting ideologies of love, marriage, and social expectation in early 20th-century England. Based on the real-life correspondence and relationship between Vita Sackville-West and Virginia Woolf, the film dramatizes not only their passionate bond but also their divergent (and sometimes overlapping) views on the constructs that governed their world: marriage, fidelity, societal roles, and the freedom to love outside conventional boundaries.

1. Vita Sackville-West: The Flamboyant Rebel

Vita Sackville-West, portrayed by Gemma Arterton, is the most vocal character in the film regarding her rejection of traditional notions of marriage. While legally married to diplomat Harold Nicolson, Vita maintains several same-sex relationships and openly advocates for a more fluid and liberated concept of love. She views marriage not as a romantic ideal but as a practical social contract—one that offers stability but does not necessarily require exclusivity in matters of the heart.

Vita’s stance is radical for her time. She embraces bisexuality with confidence, often challenging societal taboos and seeking fulfillment outside the constraints of heteronormative roles. She believes in emotional honesty and self-expression over conformity, and she is unapologetic in her pursuit of Virginia despite being a married woman. Through her character, the film critiques the restrictive institution of marriage and celebrates personal freedom and sexual identity.

Her husband Harold, while not a central character, is depicted as sharing this open understanding—showing that Vita’s world, though unconventional, is built upon mutual respect rather than deception.

2. Virginia Woolf: The Introspective Iconoclast

Virginia Woolf, portrayed by Elizabeth Debicki, presents a more complex and contemplative view of marriage and relationships. Married to Leonard Woolf, Virginia navigates her romantic feelings for Vita with caution, shaped by her mental health struggles, intellectual disposition, and deep awareness of societal judgment.

Virginia’s marriage is portrayed as one of intellectual companionship rather than romantic passion. Leonard is supportive and caring, but there is a distinct emotional distance between them—one that Virginia fills through her spiritual and romantic connection with Vita. Still, Virginia does not dismiss the institution of marriage as Vita does; instead, she redefines it on her own terms. She values her stability with Leonard and fears losing her emotional balance, suggesting that while she is tempted by Vita's freedom, she is also bound by her own psychological and societal limitations.

Virginia’s relationship with Vita serves as both an awakening and a disruption. It forces her to confront her own desires and reconsider what it means to love and be loved. Her character reflects the conflict many women faced: choosing between personal fulfillment and social acceptability.

3. Leonard Woolf: The Loyal Supporter

Leonard Woolf is depicted as a rational, devoted husband who provides Virginia with the stability she often requires. While he is aware of Virginia’s emotional bond with Vita, he remains non-confrontational and supportive. His quiet presence in the film symbolizes the idea of marriage as partnership—not necessarily romantic or sexual, but deeply rooted in care and intellectual solidarity.

Leonard’s view of marriage contrasts sharply with Vita’s bold defiance. He embodies patience and restraint, allowing Virginia the space she needs while still offering emotional anchorage. His attitude also reflects a progressive, if subdued, acceptance of Virginia’s unconventional emotional needs.

4. Lady Sackville: The Voice of Tradition

Vita’s mother, Lady Sackville, represents the conservative, aristocratic perspective on marriage and society. She disapproves of Vita’s romantic affairs with women, fearing they will lead to scandal and social ruin. Her character serves as a reminder of the rigid expectations placed on women of the upper class—to marry well, uphold family honor, and suppress desires that deviate from societal norms.

Lady Sackville is not merely a caricature of bigotry; she is a product of her time, embodying the fear and resistance that met any attempt to subvert traditional roles. Through her, the film highlights the generational and ideological tensions between tradition and transformation.

5. Broader Societal Commentary

Vita & Virginia also makes subtle commentary on the role of women and the creative elite within a patriarchal society. Through the bohemian Bloomsbury Group—of which Virginia was a central figure—the film shows a circle that flirted with progressive ideals but was still deeply embedded in social privilege. The characters’ ability to explore non-traditional relationships was in part protected by their status, yet even within these circles, they faced limitations and judgment.

The film thus suggests that societal structures—marriage, gender roles, sexuality—were deeply ingrained, and navigating them required not only courage but also negotiation. The emotional toll of this negotiation is evident in both Virginia’s hesitation and Vita’s occasional heartbreak.

Conclusion

In Vita & Virginia, marriage and relationships are not static institutions but evolving, contested terrains. The film portrays a spectrum of perspectives—from Vita’s rebellious defiance and Virginia’s introspective ambivalence to Leonard’s quiet devotion and Lady Sackville’s traditionalism. Together, these viewpoints paint a nuanced portrait of the early 20th-century struggle between societal expectation and personal authenticity. Ultimately, Vita & Virginia asks timeless questions: What defines a true partnership? Can love exist outside conventional structures? And how do individuals reconcile personal truth with social constraint?

Question : 3) In your opinion, is the film able to capture Woolf's depressive state with sincerity & Genuity?

Answer : 

In my opinion, Vita & Virginia does attempt to present Virginia Woolf’s depressive state with sincerity, and to a large extent, it succeeds—especially in the way it handles her inner turmoil not just as a medical condition but as an emotional, intellectual, and existential crisis. The film doesn't reduce her to a stereotype of a "mad genius"; instead, it shows how her sensitivity, her sharp perception of the world, and her creative mind often collided with a fragile emotional core.

Elizabeth Debicki’s portrayal of Virginia is subtle and layered. It’s in her eyes, her pauses, the way she hesitates before responding, or drifts into silence mid-conversation—that quiet ache is deeply felt. The film often uses minimal dialogue and relies more on visual metaphors and sound design to reflect her state of mind. For instance, the surreal elements—like ink swirling in water or dissonant music—create a sense of disorientation, mirroring the moments when Virginia feels overwhelmed by voices or thoughts. These choices don’t feel forced or exaggerated; they feel poetic, like an extension of Woolf’s own stream-of-consciousness style.

One moment that stands out emotionally is when Virginia reflects on the thin line between brilliance and breakdown—echoing what she once wrote in a letter:

"I feel certain that I am going mad again. I feel we can’t go through another of those terrible times."

This line, although not directly quoted in the film, is felt in the atmosphere. It is in the silence between her words and in the way she recoils from society’s noise.

Similarly, Woolf’s internal monologues in the film remind us of Clarissa Dalloway’s own haunting thoughts:

“She always had the feeling that it was very, very dangerous to live even one day.” (Mrs. Dalloway)

These words resonate with Virginia’s portrayal—her elegance constantly shadowed by vulnerability. The film doesn’t dramatize her suffering, but it allows space for her quiet unraveling, her creative bursts followed by collapse.

That said, the film sometimes refrains from showing the deeper, more violent episodes of Woolf’s depression. It touches them softly, perhaps too softly. But maybe that was intentional—to keep her pain present without letting it overpower the story of love, creativity, and inspiration. After all, Vita & Virginia is as much about Virginia’s resurrection through passion as it is about her collapse.

In the end, I do believe the film captures Woolf’s depression with poetic genuineness. Not as a spectacle, but as a silent, powerful undercurrent. It reminds us, as The Waves does:

“I am rooted, but I flow.”

That is Woolf—anchored in suffering, yet flowing with words, ideas, and emotion.

Question : 4) Share your thoughts about the portrayal of the relationship between Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackville West. (Here, discuss points like who initiated the relationship, their first meeting, their last meeting, etc).

Answer: 

The Portrayal of the Relationship between Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackville-West in Vita & Virginia

The film Vita & Virginia offers a nuanced and emotionally resonant portrayal of the relationship between two remarkable women—Virginia Woolf, the modernist writer known for her depth and fragility, and Vita Sackville-West, the aristocratic poet and novelist with a flamboyant and fearless spirit. Their relationship was as complex as it was creative, and the film does justice to this layered dynamic by exploring both the emotional and intellectual dimensions of their bond.

Who Initiated the Relationship?

In the film, it is Vita Sackville-West who initiates the relationship. From the very beginning, Vita is portrayed as bold, confident, and charming—a woman who knows what she wants and is not afraid to go after it. Her fascination with Virginia begins with her admiration for Virginia’s literary genius. She is captivated not only by Mrs. Dalloway but also by the mystique surrounding Virginia herself. Despite being married and involved in other relationships, Vita is drawn to Virginia in a way that is both romantic and deeply intellectual.

Vita’s first visit to the Bloomsbury Group—a famously progressive and bohemian circle of artists and writers—marks the beginning of their real-life interaction. The film dramatizes this moment beautifully. While the others engage in witty banter, Virginia remains distant, reserved, and a little amused by Vita’s theatricality. But this very contrast seems to ignite the beginning of their emotional tension.

Their First Meeting

Their first meeting is marked by curiosity, admiration, and a clash of energies. Vita’s warmth, physical vitality, and flirtatious nature stand in contrast to Virginia’s cerebral, ethereal presence. However, there is an unspoken understanding between them, a kind of magnetic pull. Even though Virginia appears hesitant at first—due in part to her fragile mental state—she is intrigued by Vita’s fearless energy. Vita, on the other hand, is fascinated by Virginia’s mind, her language, and her mysterious quietness.

What makes this meeting compelling in the film is not just what is said, but what is left unsaid. The camera lingers on stolen glances, on pauses that speak volumes. It’s a visual language of longing, curiosity, and a cautious but undeniable attraction.

The Evolution of Their Relationship

The film takes us through the different stages of their bond—how it moves from admiration to friendship, and then to a romantic and emotional connection. One of the most unique aspects of their relationship is that it transcends physicality. Though there are sensual elements, especially in the letters and dreams shown on screen, their relationship is ultimately one of deep emotional and creative intimacy.

Their letters become the soul of their relationship—and the film uses these beautifully. The voiceovers, often adapted from their real correspondence, form a narrative bridge between scenes. They reveal vulnerability, desire, pain, and affection. Virginia, in particular, expresses herself more openly in writing, where she can hide behind the safety of language.

The film also explores the power dynamics in their relationship. Vita is more dominant in the early stages, but as Virginia starts writing Orlando—her novel inspired by and dedicated to Vita—she regains creative control. Orlando becomes a love letter in fiction, and in many ways, the novel immortalizes their relationship.

As Virginia writes in one letter (shown in the film):

“You inspired in me such a character, as you are not.”

This speaks to the way Virginia both adored Vita and reimagined her, making her into something both real and mythical.

The film doesn’t portray their last meeting in a literal or dramatic sense. Instead, it subtly shows the emotional drift. Vita moves on, somewhat, having always been more grounded in the external world. Virginia, though deeply affected by their relationship, seems to retreat back into her inner life—her writing, her thoughts, and sadly, her mental illness.

There is no tragic breakup or betrayal. Instead, the film honors the truth of their connection—it was not meant to last forever in the physical sense, but it remained spiritually significant. Even as they grow apart in practical terms, the emotional imprint they leave on each other is lasting. The fact that Orlando was written out of this relationship proves that their love had a kind of permanence in art, if not in life.

Final Thoughts

The portrayal of Virginia and Vita’s relationship in Vita & Virginia is both tender and complex. It avoids clichés and instead presents a realistic depiction of queer love in an era of social constraints. It is neither idealized nor tragic. Rather, it is shown as transformative—both women change each other, inspire each other, and wound each other in quiet ways.

Vita brings out Virginia’s passion and desire, while Virginia brings out a deeper, more reflective side of Vita. Their connection exists somewhere between reality and imagination, between longing and restraint.

In the end, their relationship becomes a symbol—not just of romantic love, but of how people can inspire each other across boundaries of convention, time, and even personal pain. As Virginia writes Orlando, she doesn’t just capture Vita—she recreates her, preserving their love not in history, but in literature.

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