The inevitable truth that death is inescapably waiting for us is a universal theme of life, and different perceptions of it can be viewed throughout literature. Two authors exploring this concept are Edgar Allen Poe and William Cullen Bryant, whose works delve into the existentially ominous anticipation people experience leading up to their death. Whereas Poe illustrates a fearful and disturbing build-up, Bryant provides a more comforting view. Bryant’s “Thanatopsis” shares a consoling view of death through the symbolism of the sun, representing that despite the sadness and grief that comes with death, your soul will continue to live on, just as the sun continues to shine on even through the clouds.
The idea that death is merely a natural continuation of life itself can be quite a comforting notion to people in anticipation of their own demise; however this belief is not the case for the characters in "The Mask of the Red Death'' by Edgar Allen Poe. A scene depicting numerous wealthy guests hiding
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William Cullen Bryant suggests a unique idea- that turning to nature and acknowledging death’s part in it can truly comfort a weary soul. A plan to accomplish this is outlined in his work; rather than being afraid, Bryant suggests that when dark thoughts “Make thee to shudder, and grow sick at heart;” people should turn to nature's voice and feel soothed by her teachings. Bryant exemplifies the deeper meaning of his poem by utilizing the symbolism of the sun. He describes it as “infinite,” and “all-beholding,” in an effort to introduce death’s power in a calming way, rather than an intimidating one. Death joins everyone in the end, for death will reclaim one’s growth just as it gifted it to you in the first place. Although it may seem like such a big, terrible thing, the sun and the planets have seen many deaths and changes in the world, and they will continue to spin and