Loss of the Steamship Florizel (Poem by Edwin John Dove Pratt)

Loss of the Steamship Florizel

By Edwin John Dove Pratt

What changed thy face from that of yesterday,

    Great Sea! that with thy mothering hands outspread

And smiling on our common life, didst lay

    The table covers for our daily bread?

To-day, held by the thresh of iron shocks

    Within the vortex of a lightless fate,

Thy hands are tearing seaweed on the rocks,

    And thou — a stark and wild inebriate.

Poem Analysis:

"Loss of the Steamship Florizel" by E.J. Pratt reflects on the sudden and tragic transformation of the sea from a nurturing force to a destructive one following a maritime disaster.

Title: The title "Loss of the Steamship Florizel" directly informs the reader about the subject matter of the poem, which centers around the sinking of the SS Florizel.

Themes:

1. Nature's Dual Nature: The poem explores the dual nature of the sea, portraying it both as a benevolent force and a merciless destroyer. It reflects on how quickly nature's demeanor can change, from peaceful and nurturing to violent and unforgiving.
2. Human Vulnerability: The poem highlights the vulnerability of human life in the face of natural disasters. It underscores the fragility of human existence when confronted with the overwhelming power of the elements.
3. Loss and Tragedy: Central to the poem is the theme of loss and tragedy. The sinking of the Florizel represents a profound loss of life and serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of the sea and the dangers inherent in maritime travel.

Imagery:

1. Transformation of the Sea: The poem vividly depicts the transformation of the sea from a nurturing entity to a destructive force. Imagery of the sea's "mothering hands outspread" and "smiling on our common life" contrasts sharply with the image of the sea as a "stark and wild inebriate," tearing seaweed on the rocks.
2. Iron Shocks and Vortex: The imagery of "iron shocks" and "vortex of a lightless fate" conveys the violent and chaotic nature of the disaster, emphasizing the suddenness and intensity of the events.

Language and Tone:

1. The language of the poem is evocative and emotive, conveying a sense of shock, grief, and bewilderment in the face of tragedy. The tone is mournful and contemplative, reflecting on the profound loss and the incomprehensible nature of fate.
2. The use of rhetorical questions, such as "What changed thy face from that of yesterday, Great Sea!" invites reflection on the sudden and inexplicable transformation of the sea's demeanor.

Structure:

1. The poem is structured as a contemplative reflection, with the speaker pondering the sudden change in the sea's disposition and its implications in the aftermath of the disaster.
2. The use of enjambment and varied line lengths contributes to the sense of fluidity and movement, mirroring the ebb and flow of the sea itself.

Message: "Loss of the Steamship Florizel" serves as a poignant meditation on the capriciousness of nature and the fragility of human life. It underscores the need for humility and respect in the face of natural forces, while also lamenting the loss of those who perished in the tragedy.

Final Thoughts: E.J. Pratt's "Loss of the Steamship Florizel" is a powerful and evocative poem that captures the sudden and tragic transformation of the sea in the wake of a maritime disaster. Through its vivid imagery, emotive language, and contemplative tone, the poem invites readers to reflect on the unpredictability of nature and the enduring impact of loss and tragedy.