Poem analysesRobert Frost
New Hampshire analysis
New HampshireRobert Frost1923
This New Hampshire analysis explains its meaning, themes, form, and major literary devices.
Full text from Full text of New Hampshire. Public domain in the US (First published in 1923, before 1931; the original work is public domain in the United States.).
Summary
The long title poem contrasts New Hampshire with people who advertise their states, resources, and ideas. Frost presents local value as something not available in commercial quantities.[1]
Meaning and interpretation
The poem’s anti-commercial stance is knowingly contradictory: its wit and descriptions also sell the reader on the state. Its final rest is a temporary decision, not an escape from judgment.[2]
Themes
Meaning and interpretation
The poem’s anti-commercial stance is knowingly contradictory: its wit and descriptions also sell the reader on the state. Its final rest is a temporary decision, not an escape from judgment.[1]
Form and language
New Hampshire uses loose blank verse with conversational variation. Its anecdotes, catalogues, and jokes create a discursive regional portrait.[2]
Form and meter
New Hampshire uses loose blank verse with conversational variation. Its anecdotes, catalogues, and jokes create a discursive regional portrait.[2]
Literary devices
Imagery and contrast
Concrete images turn the poem’s central abstraction into a memorable scene.
Repetition and sound
Repetition and patterned sound give the argument emotional force and shape the reader’s pace.
Historical context
The work belongs to the public-domain period identified by its first publication year. Its historical setting and literary conventions inform the interpretation without replacing close reading.[1]
New Hampshire uses loose blank verse with conversational variation. Its anecdotes, catalogues, and jokes create a discursive regional portrait.[2]
What critics say
“‘New Hampshire’ is the longest single poem in the book.”
“Mr. Frost has set his main theme in the blank verse which he fashions so adroitly.”
Common questions
- What is the main meaning of New Hampshire?
- The poem’s meaning emerges from its central images, its treatment of change or conflict, and the relationship between the speaker and the world.
- What are the main themes in New Hampshire?
- Its main themes include interpretation, human experience, and the way poetic form gives those concerns shape.
- What form does New Hampshire use?
- The poem’s form is described in the analysis above; meter, lineation, repetition, and sound all contribute to its effect.