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This analysis explores the themes of regret in the face of mortality as presented in Keats' "When I Have Fears" and Longfellow's "Mezzo Cammin." Keats mourns the lost potential of a future unfulfilled, while Longfellow expresses dissatisfaction with his life's accomplishments thus far. Through contrasting tones—magical in Keats and direct in Longfellow—both poets confront their imminent death and reflect on time's relentless passage. The sonnet forms further emphasize their emotional journeys, encapsulating deep sorrow and acceptance regarding their lives' trajectories.
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“When I Have Fears” “Mezzo Cammin” Point of Connection: Regret in DEATH & sonnets Keats regrets all that he will miss after his death (mourning his lost potential) In seeing death approaching, Longfellow regrets what he has not accomplished in life thus far Tone words: direct, regretful, bleak, dissatisfied Tone words: magical, mystical, romantic, sad, melancholy, resigned, uplifting, lyrical Point of Departure: Keats romanticizes all he will miss; there is a sad resignation in his approach – mourning his future. Longfellow is direct and dissatisfied with his life thus far – mourning his past. “Half of my life is gone” | “years slip” | “not indolence, nor pleasure, nor the fret / of restless passions . . ., / But sorrow” | “Kept me from” | “lying beneath me” | “cataract of death” “fears” | “before my pen” | “like rich garners” | “magic hand of chance” | “fair creature” | “faery power” | “stand alone” Shakespearean sonnet allows for lyrical reverie and full disclosure of Keats’ prospect, followed by a couplet of final conclusion, a resignation to his death Petrarchan sonnet allows for a clear division that supports Longfellow’s mid-life crisis and observations about what he has not accomplished | octave is about his regrets and the sestet is gets at his loss of time and looming death Note: you must read detail that are printed on the test
