Dark Age Poem Rhyme Scheme and Analysis

Poet's note: "Dark Age" by Gilbert Sordebabari is a compact poem that delves into the theme of societal decay and the loss of noble values. Through vivid imagery and concise language, the poet portrays a historical period, most likely the medieval era, characterized by violence, corruption, and the erosion of honesty. The poem opens with a stark contrast between the tranquility of the evening and the brutal reality of war. The phrase "Even the eve of medieval was war" sets the tone, suggesting that even during a time when peace should prevail, conflict and bloodshed dominate. The imagery of "blood clothed like sarwar" evokes a vivid and gruesome image of violence and death. The next lines introduce the concept of defense for brotherhood, highlighting a noble intention behind the violence. The use of knives for the naive and night for the knights suggests a predatory nature, where the vulnerable are targeted and the supposed protectors are engulfed in darkness. The cross tattooed on leaders' skin signifies a religious symbol associated with power and authority, implying a perversion of faith and the manipulation of religion for personal gain. The poet then introduces the notion of pain being trained and channeled to change, challenge unmasked privileges. This line suggests a glimmer of hope and resistance against the prevailing corruption and injustice. Additionally, the mention of time being honest implies that there was once a time when integrity and truth prevailed. The subsequent lines evoke a sense of harmony with the natural world, contrasting with the darker themes introduced earlier. The earth is described as friendly, rain plays by the rules, and the sun is portrayed as benevolent. These images symbolize a time when nature was in harmony, and the world was aligned with fairness and authenticity. However, the poem takes a turn as craftiness and greed begin to shape the era. The establishment of dynasties and the creation of devious trails allude to the rise of power-hungry individuals who manipulate and exploit others for personal gain. The language used, such as "scheming and scamming," accentuates the negative aspects of this period. The final lines of the poem encapsulate the central theme. The poet poses a rhetorical question: "Why asked were come the soot?" Here, the soot symbolizes the darkness, corruption, and dishonesty that have taken over. The implication is that honesty, represented by the need to cook with charcoal, has been overshadowed and lost amidst the prevailing deceit. In "Dark Age," Sordebabari offers a critique of a historical era where violence, corruption, and dishonesty have replaced noble intentions and integrity. Through concise and vivid imagery, the poem prompts reflection on the erosion of societal values and the consequences that arise when integrity is forsaken.