Gretel in Darkness

Fiction | Poem | Adult | Published in 1975

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Study Guide

Summary

Poem Analysis

Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Literary Devices

Symbols & Motifs

Family

Family is a major symbol in this poem, represented in the brother, the father, and the home. However, instead of taking on a protective and nurturing quality, it takes on a distant and useless element for Gretel, who is unable to connect with her brother or father in the way that she needs to overcome her grief and trauma. The home—though seemingly secure and well-taken care of—feels empty. Rather than being a source of therapy, the brother and father act “as though it never happened” (Line 21), referring to the violent acts of self-defense that left the witch dead in order to ensure survival. This silence becomes the defining characteristic of family in this poem, and it points to the hard reality that people can feel alone in this world, even when among the people who should bring about the most joy and comfort.

Isolation

There is a plethora of references about loneliness and isolation in this poem. The lack of tenderness and caring women, and the absence of a mother are all manifestations of this motif, underscored as Gretel says, “[we are] far from women's arms / and memory of women” (Lines 7-8). The idea of having a strong mother present in a child’s life is the traditional epitome of a nurturing comfort.