The poem "The Death of the Hired Man" by Robert Frost is a poignant reflection on the relationship between two men, the speaker and a hired man named Silas. It tells the story of Silas's death and the speaker's response to it, and explores themes of loyalty, duty, and the passage of time.
At the beginning of the poem, the speaker is visited by his wife, Mary, who tells him that Silas has returned to their farm after a long absence. Silas is an old hired man who has worked for the speaker and Mary for many years, and although he has left and returned several times, the speaker always welcomed him back. This time, however, Silas has returned "to die."
Despite the fact that Silas has not been a reliable worker, the speaker is deeply moved by his return and the news of his impending death. He reflects on the many ways in which Silas has been a part of their lives, and on the bond that has developed between them over the years. He notes that Silas has always been "faithful" to the farm, even when he was not working there, and that he has always had a "homeless, hanging sort of love" for the place.
As the poem progresses, the speaker grapples with the emotions that Silas's return and impending death have stirred up in him. He feels a sense of guilt for not being able to do more to help Silas, and a sense of sadness at the thought of his death. At the same time, he is relieved that Silas has finally come home to die, and that he will be able to give him the care and attention he needs in his final days.
Throughout the poem, Frost uses vivid imagery and metaphors to convey the speaker's feelings about Silas and their relationship. For example, he compares Silas to a "restless stone" that has "worn away" over time, and to a "wandering brook" that has finally come to rest. These comparisons highlight the passage of time and the changes that have occurred in Silas's life, as well as the speaker's sense of responsibility for him.
In the final stanza of the poem, the speaker reflects on the idea of "home," and on the many different meanings it can hold for different people. He suggests that for Silas, home was not a physical place, but rather a sense of belonging and connection to others. He concludes by expressing his hope that Silas will find peace in death, and that he will be able to rest "by the homelike Gilead Hill."
Overall, "The Death of the Hired Man" is a powerful and moving poem that explores themes of loyalty, duty, and the passage of time. Through the relationship between the speaker and Silas, Frost highlights the importance of human connection and the bonds of friendship that can transcend the boundaries of work and class.