"On His Blindness" By John Milton

 "On His Blindness"

By John Milton 

When I consider how my light is spent
Ere half my days, in this dark world and wide,
And that one talent which is death to hide
Lodged with me useless, though my soul more bent
To serve therewith my Maker, and present
My true account, lest He returning chide;
"Doth God exact day-labour, light denied?"
I fondly ask. But patience, to prevent
That murmur, soon replies: God doth not need
Either man's work or his own gifts; who best
Bear his mild yoke, they serve him best. His state
Is kingly: thousands at his bidding speed
And post o'er land and ocean without rest;
They also serve who only stand and wait.

About the poet, 

John Milton (1608–1674) was an English poet and intellectual, best known for his epic poem "Paradise Lost." 

He was a prominent figure in the 17th century and a major advocate for political and religious freedom. Milton's works include "Paradise Regained" and "Samson Agonistes," and he was also a noted pamphleteer, writing extensively on issues of government and religion. 

His later life was marked by blindness, which he endured while composing some of his most significant works. Milton’s writing reflects his deep knowledge of classical literature, his religious fervor, and his engagement with the political and social issues of his time.

Summary of the poem, 

The sonnet begins with Milton reflecting on his own blindness, which he experiences before he has reached middle age. 

He contemplates how his "light" (his vision and by extension his ability to work) is spent prematurely in a "dark world." 

Milton laments that he possesses a single talent—a metaphor for his ability to write and contribute—but feels it is wasted because he cannot use it due to his blindness. 

He is worried that God will judge him harshly for not being able to make use of this talent to serve Him.

Milton expresses frustration and a sense of futility, questioning if God demands labor from those who are deprived of light and ability. He seems to fear that he might be judged for not using his gifts.

However, the poem takes a turn with a response from "Patience," personified as a virtue that calms Milton's anxiety. 

Patience explains that God does not need human work or personal gifts to fulfill His purposes. What truly matters is how one endures and accepts God's will. 

According to Patience, those who bear God's "mild yoke" with humility and endurance serve Him best. Even those who do nothing but wait are still serving God effectively.

The poem concludes with the reassurance that divine service is not limited to active deeds but includes patience and faith.

 Milton recognizes that his ability to serve God might be realized through acceptance and steadfastness rather than through direct action.

Overall, the poem reflects Milton's internal struggle with his disability and concludes with a spiritual resolution, emphasizing that serving God can take many forms, including passive endurance and trust.

Themes of the poem 

Faith and Divine Will: Milton contemplates how he can still serve God despite his blindness, showing a deep trust in divine purpose and a belief that spiritual service can be fulfilled in various forms.

Patience and Resignation: The poem emphasizes the need for patience and accepting one's limitations. Milton grapples with his own sense of helplessness and comes to terms with his situation, recognizing that divine plans are beyond human understanding.

Human Effort and Purpose: Milton explores the idea that everyone has a role to play, and even those who seem powerless have a purpose. He finds solace in the thought that God values faithfulness and good intentions over mere physical abilities.

Personal Struggle and Redemption: The poem reflects on Milton's internal struggle with his condition and his eventual realization that true service to God involves more than just physical capability. It highlights the redemptive power of spiritual dedication and inner strength.