Summary:
“Crossing the Bar” is a short yet profound poem written by Alfred, Lord Tennyson in 1889. The poem serves as a meditation on death, presenting it as a peaceful journey rather than something to be feared. Tennyson uses the metaphor of a ship setting sail at sunset, crossing the “bar” (a sandbar at the entrance of a harbor), which symbolizes the transition from life to death.
The speaker expresses a hope for a calm and smooth departure, free from sadness. He envisions meeting “the Pilot”—a likely reference to God or a guiding force—after his death. The poem’s themes include acceptance of mortality, the afterlife, and the natural cycle of life and death. The tone is serene, accepting, and hopeful, reflecting a sense of peace rather than sorrow.
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| Question | Answer |
| Poem Name | Crossing the Bar |
| Author | Alfred, Lord Tennyson |
| Year Written | 1889 |
| Main Themes | Death, acceptance, the afterlife, peace |
| Poetic Devices | Metaphor, imagery, symbolism |
| Symbolism | The sea = life; the bar = transition to death |
| Tone | Serene, hopeful, accepting |
| Mentioned Figure | “The Pilot” (God or a divine guide) |
| Tennyson’s Wish | Placed at the end of all his poetry collections |