In Robert Frost’s poem ‘Home Burial’, the setting is crucial to understanding the emotional depth and conflict between the two characters. The poem unfolds within the confines of a home, specifically on a staircase in a rural household. The staircase symbolizes both physical and emotional distance between the husband and wife, who are dealing with the profound grief of losing their child.
The external environment reflects the internal tension; the house represents safety and familiarity, yet it also becomes a place of isolation and unresolved pain. Stairs, in particular, play a significant role as they create a barrier between the two characters. The wife, Amy, stands at the top, physically above her husband, who remains at the bottom, signifying a power imbalance and emotional separation.
Additionally, the rural setting of the poem suggests a simplicity and quietness that contrasts with the turmoil within the couple. The mention of the outside world serves as a stark reminder of their loss, emphasizing a sense of entrapment within their grief. Overall, the setting of ‘Home Burial’ enhances the themes of communication breakdown, isolation, and the weight of sorrow that permeates their relationship.