Dramatic Encounter in Robert Frost’s “Dust of Snow”

Abstract

Robert Frost’s “Dust of Snow” is a marvelous poetic creature of simple and concise language, which conveys complex and profound philosophical insight. This article examines how the dramatic encounter between human and nature in this poem embodies Frost’s perspective on nature and human existence. By depicting the dramatic encounter, Frost reveals the therapeutic power of nature as well as its limitations, and expresses his existential concern on human predicament. The seemingly relaxing but perplexing reading experience generated by this poem, as a sort of dramatic encounter between the readers and the literary text, stimulates the readers to ponder on the vulnerability of both nature and human existence. Thus, Frost activates the dramatic power of poetry and fulfills his duty of enlightening wisdom.