The love song of alfred j prufock analysis
The Love Song of Alfred J. Prufock Analysis Love is a powerful emotional drive that many authors write about. Many seek to obtain love, but never do. In the poem The Love Song of Alfred J. Prufock by T.S Elliot, this is true of Alfred Prufock. The meaning gathered from this poem is that, Prufock isn’t skilled at engaging in social intimacy because of his negative perceptions of the world. Three shifts in the poem amplify this meaning are shown in his dark descriptions of his surroundings, his self-loathing and later his doubts of the possible negative outcome of his attempts. An example that shows that Prufock isn’t skilled at engaging in social intimacy because of his negative perceptions of the world is the description of his surroundings. The simile use puts a twist on phrases that are expected to fit the usual “romantic" themes of poems. "When the evening is spread out against the sky, like a patient etherized upon a table” (Line 1-2). This shows how Alfred Prufrock views the sky as lifeless in such a bleak city. It’s questionable as to why he is roaming the streets of such an environment (cheap-hotels, half-deserted streets, and sawdust restaurants), after the day has ended and the streets become empty. When he mentions the yellow fog moving around the areas, like a cat, we can compare it to him lurking around the environment to see what is going on and him pondering if he should join in. The second example that shows that Prufock isn’t skilled at engaging in social intimacy is exuded in the narrator’s self-loathing and indecision to “dare” to take action. Also, in this section of the monologue especially, he reveals his insecurities and flaws. A quote that highlights this is when he asks “Do I dare disturb the universe?” (Lines 45-46). This clearly shows his feelings of inadequacy. Prufrock’s reluctant to be social because of fear of ridicule. He highlights the fact that he is aging, balding and deems himself unworthy of