Terrifying or Not?

Analysis of “Desert Places”: Terrifying or Not?

            “Desert Places” written by Robert Frost contains different analytical aspects that prove other critics of his to be true. Lionel Shilling once claimed that Frost was, “a terrifying poet.” The status of “terrifying” was placed upon Frost by Shilling’s own interpretation of his work. This status sets Frost apart from other modernistic poets of his time.

            The level of “terrifying” that is associated with Frost is similar to the meaning of “terrifying” that is associated with a frightening event. A terrifying event is one that instills a great amount of fear into oneself because of a particular set of actions. The event is classified as “terrifying” when one is so scared that it potentially scars emotionally. A terrifying person is one that reflects those feelings from the events. Also a person who is viewed as “terrifying,” has a level of intimidation about them that is portrayed possibly through their actions. A terrifying person not only harbors an air of intimidation to them but also has a power about them that can cause others to be terrified of what they do. Shilling said he was a “terrifying poet” because no one knew what Frost was going to produce or claim next in his writing. His modernistic ways after the Second World War kept his readers surprised by his shocking statements that are often chilling. The way in which he slyly refers to subjects such as death and other negative subjects instills curiosity into the reader, which causes a sense of fear to be portrayed through his words. In the first line of “Desert Places,” he writes, “Snow falling and night falling fast, oh fast,” which is a reference to death. This is derived as a result of the darkness and winter season that is symbolically indicated by the heavy falling snow at night. All of the references and literary devices that he uses in his writing help to portray the terror that Shilling suggests.

            “Desert Places” has many analytical elements to it that Frost gives to his readers. The various elements and meanings found throughout the poem are conveyed through diction, the tone of the speaker, and the themes presented. The diction is vital to this particular poem because it is what allows the reader to know what Frost is attempting to suggest; his foremost way of telling the reader about the implied theme is through his carefully chosen and placed diction. Again, in the first line of the poem Frost writes, “Snow falling and night falling fast, oh fast,” tells the reader that it is winter and in the dark of night. This automatically sets the tone for the rest of the poem and allows the reader to know about the setting, which takes place during winter. The first line also implies the theme of sadness and even death because during winter there is no life because of the snow and harsh conditions. It also can validate Shilling’s claim that he is a “terrifying poet” because of the instant way he is able to introduce a setting and theme, especially one of death. However, in the last line of the first stanza Frost suggests, “But a few weeds and stubble showing last,” which lets the reader know that there is a sign of life symbolizing hope in this case. In the final stanza Frost implies that he cannot be punished any longer because his life is his own “Desert Place”. He no longer has anything to lose and ultimately no more fear of what is to come.

            Through out “Desert Places,” Shilling’s declaration of Frost being a “terrifying poet” is validated in many ways. His powerful diction and themes that are presented reflect his thoughts. The way that he is able to so easily imply themes through out his writing sets him apart from other modernistic poets of his time. His simple style of writing, yet powerful hidden meanings allows Frost to rise and accomplish the status of a “terrifying poet”.