inspiration for artists and poets). In "Adonais," we can see that this poem starts with an invocation to Urania. Urania is the muse of astronomy. Shelley imagines Urania as the muse of highly standard poetry. He invites Urania to mourn the death of Keats. The poet addresses Keats as "Adonais". This name is inspired from the classical figure Adonis.
We also notice a mournful tone as the poet laments the death of his contemporary poet, John Keats.
“I weep for Adonais-he is dead!”
Nature and Shepherd: Nature's participation in mourning is a significant feature of pastoral elegy. In this poem, all natural objects join in mourning for Adonais’ death. All natural things lament the poet's death. Shelley imagines that flowers, trees, and streams grieve for Keats. We can see that the Spring season is wild with grief. It is throwing her flower buds down. As if the Spring has become Autumn and throwing the buds. The poet says:
“Grief made the young Spring wild,”
Lamentation: In the next section, Shelley expresses deep sorrow for Keats’ untimely death. He laments the loss of a brilliant and sensitive young poet. Shelley portrays Keats as a gifted artist. He is criticized by the harsh world around him. Shelley blames harsh literary critics for Keats’ death.
Procession of Mourners: The procession of mourners is a notable feature of a pastoral elegy. In "Adonais," some mourners are presented by Shelley, such as Byron, Leigh Hunt, and Shelley himself. Byron mourns the death of Keats by singing a quiet, pathetic song. Shelley feels completely broken. Keats' friend Leigh Hunt is in deep sorrow. Shelley describes the procession of the mourners in this line:
“And others came… Desire and Adoration,”
Consolation: In the final part of the poem, Shelley shifts from grief to consolation. He imagines that Keats has become eternal. He imagines Keats is free from the struggles of the mortal world. Shelley portrays Keats as "made one with Nature." Keats’ soul, Shelley believes, now shines like a star in eternity. He is beyond the reach of envy, hate, or pain. Shelley argues that Adonais is not dead. He will live through his works.
“Peace, peace! he is not dead, he doth not sleep,”
In conclusion, “Adonais” follows the structure of a traditional pastoral elegy. It begins with an invocation, moves through lamentation and nature’s mourning, includes a procession of mourners, and ends with consolation. Through this poem, Shelley not only mourns Keats but also celebrates his legacy as a poet.
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