ANALYSIS

Lines 914

The Volta, or turning point, of the poem occurs between the eighth and ninth lines. The speaker now continuous onto the discuss about his personal beliefs. He notes that he experiences a new heart conflict as a result of his ideas of soaring and suffering similar to the one experienced by God. In contrast, the statues make him experience their suffering and be in awe of their magnificence.

The speaker makes sure the reader is aware of the sculptures’ “Wasting of ancient time” by mentioning it. They are still stunning, however there is a noticeable crack in them. Even the most magnificent statue are demolished by time, so he, one mortal man, has no hope against it. The last lines inform the reader that the statues make the speaker think about the billowing seas and the sun. Unfortunately, over everything, time rules.