The Last Leaf

Oliver Wendell Holmes’s poem, ‘The Last Leaf,’ explores the themes of aging, mortality, and the passage of time. Through graphic imagery and introspective reflections, the poem captures the physical and emotional decline of an elderly man. It delves into the complexities of human emotions, societal judgments, and the importance of empathy.

Ultimately, the poem conveys a message of acceptance, resilience, and finding beauty in the face of inevitable change. It encourages readers to reflect on their own lives, appreciate the present moment, and embrace the transient nature of existence.

The Last Leaf
Oliver Wendell Holmes

I saw him once before,As he passed by the door,And againThe pavement stones resound,As he totters o’er the groundWith his cane.

They say that in his prime,Ere the pruning-knife of TimeCut him down,Not a better man was foundBy the Crier on his roundThrough the town.

But now he walks the streets,And looks at all he meetsSad and wan,And he shakes his feeble head,That it seems as if he said,“They are gone.”

The mossy marbles restOn the lips that he has prestIn their bloom,And the names he loved to hearHave been carved for many a yearOn the tomb.

My grandmamma has said—Poor old lady, she is deadLong ago—That he had a Roman nose,And his cheek was like a roseIn the snow;

But now his nose is thin,And it rests upon his chinLike a staff,And a crook is in his back,And a melancholy crackIn his laugh.

I know it is a sinFor me to sit and grinAt him here;But the old three-cornered hat,And the breeches, and all that,Are so queer!

And if I should live to beThe last leaf upon the treeIn the spring,Let them smile, as I do now,At the old forsaken boughWhere I cling.

Summary

‘The Last Leaf’ by Oliver Wendell Holmes is a poignant poem that captures the image of an elderly man, weakened by time and age, as he walks the streets with a melancholic demeanor.

The narrator recounts having seen this man once before and now observes him, using a cane for support, as he totters over the pavement stones. In his prime, he was regarded as an exceptional individual, highly esteemed by the townsfolk. However, the passing years have taken their toll on him, leaving him forlorn and with a sense of loss.

The man’s countenance reflects his sorrowful state as he gazes at everyone he encounters, and his feeble head shakes as if to express the sentiment, “They are gone.” The poem then shifts its focus to the marbles adorning the lips of the departed, inscribed with names he held dear, serving as lasting reminders of the loved ones he has lost. The narrator recalls his grandmother’s description of the man’s former appearance, with a Roman nose and rosy cheeks akin to a snow-covered rose. Yet now, his nose has become thin and rests on his chin like a staff, while his back bears a crook and his laughter holds a melancholic crack.

Despite acknowledging that it is sinful to mock him, the narrator cannot help but find amusement in the man’s peculiar attire, including an old three-cornered hat and breeches that seem out of place in contemporary times. The poem concludes with a reflection on the narrator’s own mortality, expressing a willingness to embrace his role as the last remaining leaf clinging to a tree branch. He invites others to smile at their presence, just as they now smile at the sight of the old forsaken bough.

Structure and Form

‘The Last Leaf’ by Oliver Wendell Holmes is a sestet poem consisting of eight stanzas, each composed of six lines. The poem adheres to a consistent structure and form, contributing to its overall aesthetic and conveying the poet’s message effectively. The poem follows a loose rhyme scheme of AABCCB.

The poem’s structure establishes a sense of rhythm and symmetry. With the consistent six-line stanzas, Holmes maintains a balanced flow throughout the entire piece. This regularity enables readers to engage with the poem’s progression as each stanza builds upon the previous one. The sestet form also provides a concise framework for the poet to convey his ideas concisely, enhancing the poem’s impact.

Additionally, the six-line structure allows the poet to employ various techniques. Holmes uses end rhymes in each stanza, creating musicality and harmony in the poem’s composition. This rhyme scheme, combined with the consistent stanza length, gives the poem a coherent and polished feel.

The form of ‘The Last Leaf’ also aids in conveying the poem’s themes and emotions. The repetition of the six-line stanzas, each exploring different aspects of the elderly man’s existence, contributes to a cumulative effect. The progression from stanza to stanza deepens the reader’s understanding of the man’s situation, emphasizing the passage of time and the loss he has experienced.

Furthermore, the form allows for the exploration of contrasting elements. Holmes juxtaposes descriptions of the man’s former vitality with his present frailty, creating a stark contrast that underscores the poem’s central theme of transience and aging. The consistent structure and form enhance the impact of these contrasts, providing a framework for the poet to emphasize the dichotomy between past and present.

Themes

In ‘The Last Leaf,’ Oliver Wendell Holmes addresses several themes that are woven throughout the poem, providing insights into the human condition and the passage of time.

One prominent theme is the inevitability of aging and its effects on individuals. Holmes portrays an elderly man who walks the streets with a feeble and melancholic demeanor. The description of his thinning nose crooked back, and cracked laughter highlights the physical decline that accompanies old age.

Another theme is the ephemeral nature of life and the concept of mortality. The man’s contemplative gaze and his acknowledgment that loved ones are gone evoke a sense of loss and the fleetingness of human existence. The mention of marble resting on the lips of the departed, with names carved on tombs, emphasizes the transitory nature of life and the lasting reminders of those who have passed away.

Holmes also explores the theme of nostalgia and the longing for the past. The mention of the man’s former appearance, described by the narrator’s grandmother as having a Roman nose and rosy cheeks like a snow-covered rose, creates a contrast between his youthful vitality and his current state of decline. This juxtaposition evokes a sense of yearning for the vibrant past.

Additionally, the poem touches upon the theme of acceptance and finding solace in one’s circumstances. The narrator admits to the sinful inclination to mock the elderly man’s peculiar attire, yet there is an underlying acceptance and even amusement in the portrayal. The concluding stanza, where the narrator envisions themselves as the last leaf on a tree branch, suggests a willingness to embrace their own mortality and find contentment in their role.

Poetic Techniques and Figurative Language

In ‘The Last Leaf,’ Oliver Wendell Holmes employs various poetic techniques and figurative language to effectively convey his message.

• Imagery: One prominent technique used is imagery, enabling readers to visualize the elderly man and his surroundings. Holmes describes the man’s feeble head shaking and his cane as he “totters o’er the ground,” painting a vivid picture of his frailty. The mention of “mossy marbles” resting on lips and the carving of names on tombs appeals to the sense of touch and creates a tangible image of remembrance and mortality.
• Personification: Holmes also employs personification to bring depth to his descriptions. The pavement stones “resound” as the man walks, implying that they respond to his presence. This personification adds a sense of life and significance to the man’s actions, emphasizing their impact on the environment.
• Figurative language: Similes and metaphors are utilized to enhance the poem’s meaning. Holmes compares the man’s thinning nose to a staff resting upon his chin, employing a simile to emphasize the extent of the man’s physical decline. The man’s cheek being “like a rose in the snow” in his prime employs a metaphor, drawing a lucid comparison between his youthful complexion and the beauty of a snow-covered rose.
• Symbolism: Holmes also employs this technique to convey deeper layers of meaning. The image of the “last leaf” in the concluding stanza symbolizes both the narrator’s acceptance of mortality and the fleeting nature of life itself. It represents the resilience of the human spirit in clinging to existence despite the inevitability of change and loss.

Through their skillful use, Holmes creates a rich tapestry of language that evokes emotions and enhances the reader’s understanding of the poem’s themes. These poetic techniques and figurative language lend depth and resonance to ‘The Last Leaf,’ enriching its portrayal of aging, loss, acceptance, and the human experience.

Detailed Analysis

Stanza One

I saw him once before,

As he passed by the door,

And again

The pavement stones resound,

As he totters o’er the ground

With his cane.

In the first stanza of ‘The Last Leaf,’ Oliver Wendell Holmes sets the tone and introduces the main character, an elderly man. Through careful observation and precise language, Holmes conveys a message about the short-lived nature of time and the impact it has on individuals.

The stanza begins with the narrator’s recollection, stating, “I saw him once before,” indicating that the encounter being described is not the first. This suggests that the narrator has had previous interactions or sightings of the elderly man, establishing a sense of familiarity and personal connection. By sharing this information, Holmes prompts readers to engage with the character and the unfolding narrative.

The imagery of the man passing by the door creates a visual scene, implying that he is a regular presence in the narrator’s environment. This ordinary act of passing by serves as a reminder of the passage of time, subtly foreshadowing the theme of aging that will be further developed in the poem.

The next line, “And again,” suggests a repetition or continuation of the previous encounter. This repetition reinforces the idea that time is relentless, and the man’s presence persists in the narrator’s perception. It also suggests that the man’s physical condition may have deteriorated further since their previous encounter.

Holmes employs auditory imagery when he writes, “The pavement stones resound.” This personification of the pavement stones emphasizes the weight and impact of the man’s presence. The use of the word “resound” implies that his footsteps create a noticeable echo, possibly due to the heaviness of his steps or the use of a cane. This adds to the overall imagery of the man’s frailty and vulnerability, as well as highlighting his significance within the environment.

The final line of the stanza, “As he totters o’er the ground with his cane,” further emphasizes the man’s physical state. The verb “totter” conveys a sense of unsteadiness and vulnerability, suggesting that he struggles to maintain balance and mobility. The mention of the cane as a means of support underscores the man’s reliance on external aid to navigate the world.

Stanza Two

They say that in his prime,

Ere the pruning-knife of Time

Cut him down,

Not a better man was found

By the Crier on his round

Through the town.

In this second stanza of ‘The Last Leaf,’ the poet delves into the past of the elderly man, highlighting his esteemed reputation during his prime. Through vivid imagery and metaphorical language, Holmes conveys a message about the transient nature of life and the effects of time on individuals.

The stanza begins with the phrase “They say,” indicating that the following lines are based on hearsay or popular belief. This introduces an element of speculation and adds a sense of collective perception surrounding the man’s past. It also suggests that his reputation precedes him, and he is known throughout the town.

Holmes employs the metaphor of the “pruning-knife of Time” to describe the passage of years and its impact on the man. This graphic image evokes the idea of time as a force that shapes and diminishes individuals. The use of the verb “cut him down” further emphasizes the sense of loss and transformation caused by the passing years.

The following line, “Not a better man was found,” emphasizes the man’s exceptional qualities during his prime. This statement positions him as a paragon of virtue and suggests that he stood out among his peers. It highlights his moral character, achievements, or perhaps his contributions to the community.

The mention of the “Crier on his round through the town” adds a touch of local folklore and tradition to the narrative. The Crier, typically associated with making public announcements, signifies the man’s significance and the high regard in which he was held. The phrase “round through the town” suggests that his reputation was widely recognized and respected.

Through this second stanza, Holmes underscores the man’s distinguished past, building a sense of admiration and reverence. The metaphor of the pruning knife of Time symbolizes the inexorable passage of years and the transformative effect it has on individuals. The mention of the Crier adds a touch of community recognition, affirming the man’s exceptional qualities.

Stanza Three

But now he walks the streets,

And looks at all he meets

Sad and wan,

And he shakes his feeble head,

That it seems as if he said,

“They are gone.”

In the third stanza of ‘The Last Leaf,’ Holmes focuses on the present state of the elderly man, portraying his desolate demeanor and the impact of loss on his life. Through descriptive language and poignant imagery, Holmes conveys a message about the passage of time, the fleeting nature of relationships, and the weight of nostalgia.

The stanza begins with a simple but powerful statement: “But now he walks the streets.” This indicates a shift from the man’s previous state of prominence and vitality to his current existence as a pedestrian, emphasizing the contrast between his past and present circumstances. It suggests a sense of displacement and a loss of former stature.

The line “And looks at all he meets” implies that the man’s gaze is filled with longing and sadness. He takes notice of those around him, perhaps seeking connection or reminiscing about relationships from the past. This action of observing others underscores the theme of human connection and the significance of social bonds.

The words “Sad and wan” evoke a sense of melancholy and weariness in the man’s appearance. The adjective “sad” conveys deep sorrow, while “wan” suggests a lack of vitality and a pallid complexion. These descriptions enhance the reader’s empathy for the man’s emotional state and emphasize the toll that time and loss have taken on him.

Holmes further emphasizes the man’s desolation by describing how he “shakes his feeble head.” This gesture conveys a mixture of resignation, regret, and perhaps a profound sense of longing for what has been lost. The imagery of the shaking head implies a mournful acknowledgment of the irrevocable passing of time and the people who were once part of his life.

The stanza concludes with the poignant line, “That it seems as if he said, ‘They are gone.'” Here, Holmes highlights the man’s profound sense of loss and the lingering impact it has on him. The use of indirect speech adds a layer of poignancy as if the man’s silent gaze speaks volumes about the absence of loved ones and the passing of relationships.

Stanza Four

The mossy marbles rest

On the lips that he has prest

In their bloom,

And the names he loved to hear

Have been carved for many a year

On the tomb.

In the fourth stanza of ‘The Last Leaf,’ Oliver Wendell Holmes delves into the theme of mortality and the lingering impact of loss on the elderly man. Through the use of striking imagery and symbolic language, Holmes conveys a message about the transitory nature of life, the power of memory, and the enduring presence of those who have passed away.

The stanza begins with the image of “mossy marbles,” which symbolize tombstones or grave markers. The use of the word “mossy” suggests the passage of time and the gradual decay that accompanies it. These marbles “rest” on the lips that the man had “prest” (pressed) in their bloom, indicating that those he cared for and shared connections with have now passed away.

This imagery of resting marbles and pressed lips evoke a sense of stillness and finality. It conveys the idea that the individuals the man loved are no longer alive and that their voices and presence have been silenced. The contrast between the marble tombstones and the vibrant bloom of their lives serves to emphasize the temporal nature of existence.

Holmes further emphasizes the enduring impact of the deceased by stating that “the names he loved to hear” have been “carved for many a year” on the tombstones. This suggests that the memories of these individuals and the love the man held for them have persisted long after their deaths. The act of carving their names on the tombstones serves as a testament to their lasting presence and the indelible mark they have left on the man’s life.

Stanza Five

My grandmamma has said—

Poor old lady, she is dead

Long ago—

That he had a Roman nose,

And his cheek was like a rose

In the snow;

In the fifth stanza of ‘The Last Leaf,’ Oliver Wendell Holmes shifts the focus from the elderly man to the memories and recollections of the narrator’s grandmamma. Through the use of personal reminiscence and vivid imagery, Holmes conveys a message about the passage of time, the significance of personal stories, and the ephemeral nature of beauty.

The stanza begins with a nostalgic tone as the narrator references his grandmamma’s words. By acknowledging that the grandmamma has passed away, Holmes highlights the theme of transience and the inevitability of mortality. This introduction of the grandmamma’s perspective suggests the passing down of stories and memories from one generation to another, underscoring the importance of preserving personal narratives.

The description of the man’s physical features adds depth to his character and highlights the ephemeral nature of beauty. The mention of his “Roman nose” suggests a distinctive and noble quality, evoking imagery of strength and prominence. This attribute, as recounted by the grandmamma, serves as a testament to the man’s youthful allure and attractiveness.

The simile “his cheek was like a rose in the snow” further emphasizes the man’s former beauty and charm. The contrasting imagery of the vibrant rose against the backdrop of snow implies a striking and captivating appearance. However, this simile also suggests the fragility and ephemeral nature of beauty as roses wither and snow melts away.

Through the recollection of the grandmamma’s words, Holmes highlights the significance of personal memories and stories in preserving the essence of individuals and moments in time. The juxtaposition of the man’s former physical beauty with the reality of his current state serves as a reminder of the passage of time and the impermanent nature of human existence.

Stanza Six

But now his nose is thin,

And it rests upon his chin

Like a staff,

And a crook is in his back,

And a melancholy crack

In his laugh.

This stanza continues to depict the physical decline of the elderly man, highlighting the effects of time on his appearance and demeanor. Through graphic imagery and figurative language, Holmes conveys a message about the inevitability of aging, the fragility of the human body, and the emotional toll it takes.

The stanza begins with a crystal clear description of the man’s nose: “But now his nose is thin.” This phrase signifies a physical transformation, emphasizing the withering and diminishing of his features as he ages. The adjective “thin” suggests a loss of substance and vitality, further highlighting the contrast between his prime and his current state.

The simile “And it rests upon his chin like a staff” portrays the man’s nose as a frail and elongated feature. This comparison to a staff, typically associated with support and stability, conveys a sense of physical weakness and fragility. It suggests that the man relies on his nose as a prop, further emphasizing his decline and the toll that time has taken on his body.

The following lines continue to depict the man’s physical deterioration. The mention of “a crook” in his back evokes an image of a bent or hunched posture, indicating the burden of age and physical strain. This imagery emphasizes the loss of vitality and the toll that the years have taken on his body, further accentuating the theme of mortality.

The phrase “a melancholy crack in his laugh” adds an emotional layer to the stanza. It suggests that the man’s laughter, once presumably joyful, has been affected by the weight of his experiences and the passage of time. The use of the word “crack” implies a fracture or flaw, highlighting the presence of sorrow or weariness in his demeanor.

Holmes captures the theme of aging and the physical and emotional toll it takes on individuals. The description of the man’s thin nose, crooked back, and melancholic laugh serves as a powerful metaphor for the challenges and changes that come with growing older. It invites readers to reflect on the inevitability of physical decline and the emotional complexities that accompany the aging process.

Stanza Seven

I know it is a sin

For me to sit and grin

At him here;

But the old three-cornered hat,

And the breeches, and all that,

Are so queer!

The seventh stanza of ‘The Last Leaf‘ explores the narrator’s conflicted emotions and reflects on the human tendency to find amusement in the appearance of others. Through the use of personal introspection and colloquial language, Holmes conveys a message about empathy, the complexity of human emotions, and the impact of societal judgments.

The stanza begins with the narrator’s self-awareness as he acknowledges, “I know it is a sin.” This admission demonstrates the narrator’s recognition of his own moral lapse and suggests a sense of guilt or remorse for his initial reaction. This self-awareness invites readers to reflect on their own tendencies to judge others based on their appearance.

The phrase “sit and grin” implies that the narrator finds amusement or entertainment in observing the elderly man. It suggests a superficial and possibly callous response to his unconventional attire. However, the narrator’s admission of wrongdoing reveals a self-awareness that challenges this initial reaction and encourages a deeper understanding of the man’s situation.

The mention of the “old three-cornered hat” and “breeches” highlights the man’s outdated and eccentric clothing. The narrator describes them as “queer,” suggesting that he finds the man’s appearance peculiar or unusual. This choice of language underscores the theme of societal judgments based on appearance and the tendency to view those who deviate from social norms as objects of amusement or ridicule.

By acknowledging the conflict between his initial amusement and his sense of wrongdoing, the narrator humanizes the experience of observing others. It prompts readers to reflect on their own biases and encourages empathy for the elderly man’s unique circumstances. The stanza serves as a reminder of the complexity of human emotions and the need to approach others with understanding and compassion.

In this stanza seven, Holmes conveys a message about the importance of empathy and the dangers of superficial judgments. The narrator’s self-awareness and admission of his flawed response highlight the need for introspection and a deeper understanding of others. It invites readers to question their own tendencies to judge based on appearance and to recognize the value of empathy in fostering connections and compassion.

Stanza Eight

And if I should live to be

The last leaf upon the tree

In the spring,

Let them smile, as I do now,

At the old forsaken bough

Where I cling.

In this eighth and final stanza, Holmes brings the poem to a reflective and poignant conclusion. Through the use of metaphorical language and an introspective tone, Holmes conveys a message about resilience, acceptance of one’s place in life, and finding solace in the face of inevitable change.

The stanza begins with the narrator contemplating his mortality and the possibility of being “the last leaf upon the tree in the spring.” This metaphorical imagery conveys a sense of being the sole survivor or remaining entity in a changing world. It represents the narrator’s recognition of his mortality and the passage of time.

The phrase “the last leaf upon the tree” suggests a sense of isolation and vulnerability. It symbolizes the narrator’s position as an individual who has endured while others have perished or moved on. This image captures the fragility and transience of life, emphasizing the inevitability of change and the passing of time.

The narrator’s response to this realization is one of acceptance and contentment. He states, “Let them smile, as I do now, at the old forsaken bough where I cling.” This line encapsulates the message of the poem, as the narrator finds solace and peace in his present circumstances. Despite the metaphorical desolation of the “old forsaken bough,” he maintains a positive outlook and embraces his connection to it.

This stanza conveys a message about resilience and finding joy in the face of adversity. The narrator’s ability to “smile” despite his circumstances represents his acceptance of life’s inevitable changes and his ability to find beauty and meaning in his current state. It encourages readers to appreciate the present moment and to find contentment even when faced with the passing of time and the challenges of life.

In this final stanza, Holmes offers a poignant reflection on the human experience and the acceptance of mortality. The image of the last leaf clinging to the tree serves as a reminder of our own impermanence and the need to find peace and purpose within ourselves. It invites readers to reflect on their own lives, find strength in the face of change, and embrace the beauty of each passing moment.

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Similar Poetry

If you enjoyed this poem by Oliver Wendell Holmes, you might like to explore these other poems by Oliver Wendell Holmes:

• ‘God Save the Flag’ is a simple, optimistic, and passionate poem in which the speaker emphatically delivers his opinion on the United States. 
• ‘Old Ironsides’ speaks on the glory of the USS Constitution on the eve of its decommissioning from the service.
• ‘The Chambered Nautilus’ is an interesting and beautiful poem. In it, the poet describes the nautilus and the life of struggle and improvement it engages in.