Miniver Cheevy

Fiction | Poem | Adult | Published in 1910

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Summary

Background

Poem Analysis

Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Literary Devices

Symbols & Motifs

The Middle Ages

To Miniver, the “days of old” when “swords were bright and steeds were prancing” (Lines 5-6) represent a simpler time in which it was possible for a man to earn respect through his heroic actions. These are not just lighthearted tales to pass the time—they inform his worldview. He believes that the “ripe renown / That made so many a name so fragrant” (Lines 13-14) has been lost to the sands of time, making it impossible for the modern man to claim such glory as he did in the medieval era.

These fantasies of the Middle Ages (which are clearly not historically accurate) are emblematic of everything Miniver’s life is not. They symbolize excitement, achievement, prestige, and risk, which all combine to make a meaningful life worth living. If only time travel were possible, Miniver could have a solid place in society instead of idly drinking his life away. In the modern age, he simply does not understand where he fits in.

Khaki Suit

In line 22, Miniver eyes a khaki suit “with loathing.” In this context, the khaki suit is likely that of the modern military man. The suit is then contrasted against the “grace” of medieval armor, which is ironic given how bulky and burdensome “iron clothing” was in comparison to modern day uniforms (Lines 23-24).

The plain khaki uniform symbolizes what Miniver detests about the modern era: its ordinariness and uniformity. Even though he is ordinary himself, he lies to himself that this would not be the case in an earlier time, imagining himself fitting in among the ranks of great warriors and nobles. The khaki uniform is an unwanted reminder of mundane reality that causes him to snap out of his daydream about the Medicis to curse “the commonplace” that he is always trying to escape (Line 21).

Alcohol

The poem ends on an ominous note as Robinson reveals that Miniver has been drinking the entire time that he has been lost in his imagination (Line 32). While in some contexts alcohol can represent celebration and uninhibitedness, here it symbolizes avoidant behavior and irresponsibility. Miniver’s drunkenness transports him to an alternate reality where he does not have to face his failures. If he were sober, he may be more motivated to change his sorry situation, but alcohol pacifies him and allows him to not take any responsibility for his actions.