In the poem "The Tide Rises, the Tide Falls" by Longfellow, there are several instances of symbolism and repetition that contribute to the overall meaning of the poem. The repetition of the phrases "the tide rises, the tide falls" creates a sense of cyclical movement and represents the continuous passage of time. It emphasizes the transient nature of life and alludes to the inevitability of death.
The symbolism of the tide rising and falling represents the ebb and flow of life. Just as the tide rolls in and out, life comes and goes. The darkness settling on roofs and walls symbolizes the night, marking the end of a day and represents the passage of time. Additionally, the sea calling in the darkness signifies the allure of the unknown and the mystery of life.
The repetition of the sea erasing the footprints in the sands highlights the idea of impermanence and the fleeting nature of human existence. It suggests that no matter how much impact we make in this world, it will eventually be washed away and forgotten.
Furthermore, the morning breaking and the steeds in their stalls stamping and neighing symbolize the beginning of a new day, symbolizing the continuation of life. However, the last repetition of "the tide rises, the tide falls" serves as a reminder that while life goes on, the traveler will never return to the shore. This emphasizes the idea of mortality and the irreversible nature of death.
Overall, through the symbolism of the tides and the repetition of key phrases, Longfellow conveys the themes of fleeting time, the impermanence of life, and the inevitability of death.