mending wall主题（Breaking Barriers A Reflection on the Themes of Mending Wall）

Breaking Barriers: A Reflection on the Themes of Mending Wall

The Barrier Between Us

Robert Frost's Mending Wall is a poem that explores the theme of barriers, and how they affect human relationships. The speaker, who is Frost himself, is questioning the necessity of a wall between himself and his neighbor, whom he cannot fully understand. At the same time, Frost acknowledges that the wall has been there for a long time, and that it has become a part of their tradition. In this sense, the wall becomes a symbol of the barriers that exist between people, even when they are from the same community.

The Futility of Barriers

Frost's poem suggests that barriers are often built out of habit and not out of necessity. The speaker questions the need for the wall, and wonders if it really serves any purpose. The neighbor, on the other hand, stubbornly insists on maintaining the wall, even though he cannot explain why. This blind adherence to tradition and habit is what causes people to build barriers that are ultimately futile. Rather than helping people to connect with each other, barriers often become a way to reinforce the divisions between them.

Building Bridges

It is only at the end of the poem, when the two neighbors are repairing the wall together, that there seems to be a sense of connection between them. Even though they have different attitudes towards the wall, they are able to come together and work towards a common goal. This moment of cooperation suggests that it is possible to bridge the gaps that exist between people, if they are willing to work towards it. Rather than focusing on the things that divide them, people can choose to look for the things that unite them, and use them as a way to build connections. Breaking down barriers requires effort and commitment, but it can lead to a more harmonious and peaceful community. In conclusion, Robert Frost's Mending Wall teaches us that barriers between people are often based on habit and tradition, rather than necessity. These barriers can be dismantled if people are willing to work towards a common goal. By building bridges and focusing on the things that unite us, we can break down barriers and create a more harmonious community.