The main idea of the poem “Eldorado” by Edgar Allan Poe revolves around the themes of quest and the search for meaning in life. The poem follows a gallant knight who embarks on a journey in search of the elusive land of Eldorado, which symbolizes a place of immense wealth and happiness.
Throughout his journey, the knight faces various obstacles and ultimately experiences disillusionment as he grows older. His relentless pursuit reflects the universal human desire to seek a better life, achieve dreams, or find one’s true purpose. However, the poem poignantly illustrates that this quest can lead not only to hopeful aspirations but also to a sense of despair when those dreams seem unattainable.
In the end, the knight encounters an old man who advises him to “Seek it but with a sigh,” suggesting that the journey is perhaps more significant than the destination itself. This gives the poem a reflective tone about the nature of ambition, perseverance, and the recognition that fulfillment may come in forms different from what we originally envisioned.