Philosopher
In "A Psalm Life," the speaker embraces a perspective of life that finds beauty and meaning in the everyday experiences, emphasizing gratitude, resilience, and connection with others. This optimistic outlook contrasts with a more pragmatic view that I might hold, which often focuses on the challenges and uncertainties of life. While I appreciate the speaker's celebration of life's moments, my perspective tends to be more cautious, acknowledging both joy and struggle as integral parts of the human experience. Ultimately, both views highlight the complexity of life and the importance of finding personal significance in our journeys.
Jewish tradition states that King David wrote Psalm 137 prophetically, foreseeing the exile in Babylon.
it expresses the feelings and observations of a single speaker
In "A Psalm of Life," the speaker would likely advise someone suffering from misfortune to embrace resilience and actively seek meaning in their struggles. They might encourage the individual to view life as a journey filled with purpose and to focus on taking positive action rather than succumbing to despair. Ultimately, the message would emphasize living fully in the present, striving for personal growth, and finding strength in adversity.
One example of hyperbole in the Psalm of Life could be when the poet claims that "Life is real! Life is earnest!" This statement is an exaggerated way of emphasizing the seriousness and importance of life.
The bible does not saymuch, but it does say in psalm 90 that mans life span is three score and a half that is seventy years, the rest is as a bonus to you.
Psalm 107:20.See also:More about the Psalms
death/afterlife
The rhyme scheme in "A Psalm of Life" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is ABABCC. The rhyme scheme in "Auspex" by Henry Gifford is AABBCCDD.
"Auspex" has six-line stanzas while "A Psalm of Life" has four-line stanzas.
"Tehillim kaf bet"