Human Conscience in Walter de la Mare’s The Listeners: an Allegorical Exploration

Abstract

Purpose: This paper presents an allegorical exploration of Walter de la Mare’s The Listeners. It dwells on the presentation of the human conscience in the poem. 
 Methodology/ Approach: A literary analysis with focus on allegory.
 Findings: The Listeners by Walter De La Mare is a poem built on controversial grounds. The claimers have their own ambiguous theories. Some explored it for musical aspects other for gothic elements. The allegorical aspect of the poem is ignored not that they deny it, but because it has many meanings to give. Apart from the eerie effects, the character of “The Traveler” and “Phantom Listeners” arise questions and suggestions. The nearest meaning these characters attract is towards a human being. Struggles between vice and virtue; and the inner evil and restless conscience within.
 Conclusion: The confession of the author It concerns me a bit now that what was really the intended meaning. It has left the poem opened for critics and readers to explore more. Yet a clue is found when it is said that the Creator is not worried about death but about conscience.