Poetry From the Garden: Stop All the Clocks by W.H Auden (reading and discussion) part 5

13:26 Dec 28, 2022 2 comments 458 270

Download (18 MB, MP3)

This time I discuss Stop All the Clocks, a poem you've likely heard in movies or on tv. First you'll hear the poem, (recorded at another time) and then my thoughts on it.

I hope you enjoy!


Other audios in series Poetry from the Garden

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  • CharlieRomeoLima on 2023-01-13 05:09:11 (UTC)

    Because I am presently re-reading through the Dune novels again, I could not help but think that Auden's original satirical meaning dovetails very smoothly with Frank Herbert's most salient warning to readers: "Beware of Heroes". That no matter how noble, good or morally upright, the Hero's fanatically devoted followers mindlessly commit atrocities in his name. Hero = Beloved Politician who is everything to his supporters --> the death of either figure makes them a martyr who passes into legend and then myth.

    I also listened to this audio twice because it was close to bedtime and your voice here was particularly relaxing! 😊

    • A Eve on 2023-01-31 21:55:43 (UTC)

      That's a really good comparison, I think that can definitely sum up the meaning Auden was going for. I never got the feeling that he was complaining because of the adoration for 'the other guy' (ie not his candidate), but at the spectacle in general.

      And I'm glad I could help you relax!