Rime Of The Ancient Mariner Quotes

A Deep Dive into the Rime of the Ancient Mariner: Exploring Key Quotes and Their Significance

Samuel Taylor Coleridge's "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner" stands as a literary masterpiece, a ballad rich in symbolism, allegory, and haunting imagery. Its enduring appeal stems not only from its compelling narrative of a sailor's supernatural journey but also from the profound philosophical and moral questions it raises. Decades after its publication, the poem continues to fascinate and inspire, prompting countless interpretations and analyses. This article delves into some of the most significant quotes from "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner," exploring their context, meaning, and lasting impact.

Part 1: The Albatross and the Supernatural

The albatross, a symbol of good omen initially, represents the Mariner's initial connection to nature and its bounty. Its shooting, a seemingly insignificant act, sets in motion a chain of events that highlight the devastating consequences of violating the natural order.

"And I had done a hellish thing, / And it would work 'em woe: / For all averred, I had killed the bird / That made the breeze to blow."

This quote encapsulates the Mariner's immediate guilt and foreshadows the suffering to come. The "hellish thing" refers not just to the killing of the albatross but to the deeper transgression of disrupting the harmonious balance of nature. The use of "all averred" emphasizes the collective condemnation and the universality of the Mariner's crime against nature. The line about the albatross making the breeze blow speaks to its crucial role in their voyage, highlighting the catastrophic impact of its death. The poem establishes a clear cause-and-effect relationship between the Mariner's act and the subsequent suffering of his crew.

"Ah! well a-day! what evil looks / Had I from old and young! / Instead of the cross, the Albatross / About my neck was hung."

Here, the albatross transforms from a symbol of good luck to a symbol of the Mariner's curse. The line, "Instead of the cross," is crucial; it underscores the Mariner's spiritual isolation and the substitution of a symbol of Christian redemption with a symbol of his transgression. The hanging of the albatross around his neck becomes a physical manifestation of his guilt and punishment. The reaction of "old and young" signifies the widespread recognition of his sin.

Part 2: Suffering and Redemption

The Mariner's voyage is marked by intense suffering, both physical and psychological. He witnesses the deaths of his crewmates and faces the harsh realities of isolation and despair at sea. This suffering is not simply punishment but also a catalyst for spiritual growth and eventual redemption.

"Water, water, every where, / And all the boards did shrink; / Water, water, every where, / Nor any drop to drink."

This iconic stanza illustrates the paradoxical nature of the Mariner's plight. Surrounded by water, he is yet deprived of the life-giving element, highlighting the irony of his situation and the desperate thirst that grips him and his crew. The repetition emphasizes the pervasiveness of their suffering and the hopelessness of their predicament. This imagery highlights the themes of abundance and scarcity, a constant struggle in survival and life itself.

"Day after day, day after day, / We stuck, nor breath, nor motion; / As idle as a painted ship / Upon a painted ocean."

This quote paints a picture of utter stillness and despair. The repetition of "day after day" underlines the monotony and hopelessness of their situation. The comparison to a "painted ship / Upon a painted ocean" emphasizes the surreal and unreal quality of their experience, a stagnation that transcends the physical and delves into the psychological impact of their isolation and prolonged suffering.

"Alone, alone, all, all alone, / Alone on a wide wide sea! / And Christ would have me for a friend, / And Mary mother be."

The repeated "alone" underlines the profound isolation of the Mariner, highlighting the psychological toll of his actions. However, the final two lines introduce a glimmer of hope. The invocation of Christ and Mary signals a turning point, suggesting the possibility of divine intervention and the potential for forgiveness and redemption. The transition from absolute despair to a plea for divine grace is a crucial moment in the Mariner's journey of spiritual transformation.

Part 3: The Supernatural and the Moral

The poem’s supernatural elements are intricately intertwined with its moral message. The encounter with Death and Life-in-Death, the spectral figures, highlights the struggle between life and death, sin and redemption.

"The sun's rim dips; the stars rush out: / At one stride comes the dark;"

This concise and powerful quote highlights the abrupt transition from light to darkness, mirroring the sudden changes in the Mariner's fortune. The imagery serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of fate and the fleeting nature of life itself. The quick shift underscores the gravity of the events unfolding in the poem.

"I looked upon the rotting sea, / And drew my eyes away;""

This quote illustrates the Mariner's capacity for both confronting and avoiding unpleasant realities. He sees the decay and death around him but attempts to shield himself from it, reflecting his struggle with his own guilt and the consequences of his actions. The act of looking away indicates an avoidance of responsibility and a reluctance to fully engage with the consequences of his actions.

Part 4: Penance and the Blessing

The Mariner's penance involves narrating his tale to others, forcing him to confront the weight of his actions and share his experience as a cautionary lesson. This act of confession is central to his redemption.

"'And ever since that blessèd hour / My spirit has been bound / To tell my tale.'"'

This quote highlights the imperative nature of the Mariner's penance. The "blessed hour" refers to the moment of his spiritual awakening and the realization that he must share his story. His spirit is bound to this task, signifying the ongoing nature of his redemption and the importance of his confession. It underscores the moral responsibility that comes with recognizing and acknowledging one's wrongdoings.

"He prayeth best, who loveth best / All things both great and small; / For the dear God who loveth us, / He made and loveth all."

This is arguably the poem's most famous and significant quote. It articulates the central moral lesson of the poem. It emphasizes the importance of love and compassion for all living creatures, irrespective of their size or perceived significance. The line connects love to prayer, suggesting that genuine love for all creation is the most effective form of prayer and the truest expression of faith. This final moral lesson forms the ultimate conclusion to the Mariner’s arduous journey of spiritual transformation.

Part 5: The Enduring Legacy

"The Rime of the Ancient Mariner" continues to resonate with readers because its themes of environmental responsibility, the consequences of sin, and the possibility of redemption are timeless and universal. The poem's enduring power lies in its ability to evoke powerful emotions and provoke profound reflection. The analysis of its key quotes reveals the depth and complexity of Coleridge's masterpiece, reinforcing its position as a cornerstone of English Romantic literature. The lingering questions and potent imagery ensure that the poem's message will continue to inspire and challenge generations of readers. The poem's enduring appeal is a testament to its rich tapestry of symbolism, haunting narrative, and timeless moral message, making it a rewarding piece of literature for all who dare to explore its depths. The poem's exploration of guilt, redemption, and the interconnectedness of all living things remains deeply relevant today, solidifying its status as a literary masterpiece and a work that continues to resonate with readers centuries later. The ambiguous ending leaves readers pondering the Mariner's ultimate fate and the lasting impact of his journey, enriching the poem's lasting legacy.