The poem “Design” by Robert Frost and the poem “A Noiseless Patient Spider” by Walt Whitman take inspiration from remarkably similar subject matter, yet their interpretations differ entirely. Both focus on a spider, in Frost’s poem, the spider acts as a predator, almost an amalgamation of evil. In contrast, Whitman sees the spider as a representation of creativity and hope. Both poems offer this stark contrast of something so small representing a bigger idea in such a large world, both spiders are meant to give insight into human nature and the world that encompasses it. The thought behind these interpretations is conveyed using alternative forms and structures, truly making these seemingly similar poems so different. Starting with structure, “Design” implores the use of rhyming …show more content…
While both subjects are just spiders bound by instinct, the ideas they represent are reflections of the author’s perspectives and tone. Robert Frost can look at the predator and prey as a whole, and further apply it to the world around him, leading to a darker and more spiritual outlook. This in turn creates a more bleak and eerie tone with a rhyming scheme that keeps the poem more confined and structured. In contrast, Walt Whitman takes the spider's actions in his poem and refracts it into himself, looking at the creature's creative and hardworking nature and appreciating its beauty. Because of this perspective, Whitman encapsulates a tone flowing with optimism and hope, and the structure of his piece remains free flowing. Both authors can take such a simple subject and expand upon it to hold complex themes and perspectives seen everywhere. While they may have similarities, the way each subject is interpreted vastly differs, and both authors reflect that in the symbolism each spider