The Evolving Imagery and Symbolism in Miguel Hernández's Poetry

Imagery and Symbolism in the Poetry of Miguel Hernández

Images and symbols are fundamental tools that allow Miguel Hernández to express his deepest feelings. Throughout his work, we observe significant changes in the conception and use of these symbols, reflecting the distinct stages of his life and poetic development.

The Moon: From Setting to Self-Reflection

The central symbol in his early work, Perito en lunas (Expert in Moon), is the moon. Initially presented as a simple, pleasant scenario, the moon slowly gains a starring role, eventually becoming regarded as a reflection of the poet himself, embodying his feelings and emotions.

The Whistle and Lightning: Voice and Struggle

The whistle (or whisper) and lightning are key elements in his poetry, often carrying nostalgic weight. The whistle represents the voice of the poet who sings. Initially, the 'violated whistle' reflects a song of hurt and suffering related to unrequited love. However, during the Spanish Civil War, this whisper transforms into a scream, inviting people to fight and share a collective song for the people.

The symbol of lightning is initially remarkable for conveying feelings of damaging love and sexual frustration. Later, particularly in his mature war poetry (such as Viento del pueblo), lightning refers to social upheaval and the tragic destiny of a nation, joining the broader symbolism of struggle and conflict.

The Bull: Suffering, Masculinity, and Revolution

The bull is a profoundly important symbol, often representing the poet himself—both born to suffer, endure torture, and face death. The bull also symbolizes masculinity. In his poetry of war, the bull transforms into a man-beast, embodying the spirit of the revolution.

Hernández frequently uses powerful adjectives to describe the bulls, symbolizing a Spain wounded and suffering from the war.

Other Symbolic Animals and Melancholy

Other symbolic animals appear, such as the docile ox, associated with the gentleness of the village people, who are urged to become like lions. These images and metaphors reflect a country deeply divided by the Civil War.

Melancholy is often symbolized through penalty or sorrow, typically caused by unrequited love or the beloved's continued rejection. This sorrow is accompanied by images and metaphors depicting the total self-sacrifice of the loved one.

Representations of Death and Frustrated Paternity

Death is represented through stark imagery, including holes, cemeteries, and shadows, often linked directly to the death of his child. Following the intense focus on war, the poet shifts toward themes of love, seeking strength and hope. However, this hope for future paternity is tragically frustrated by the death of his first child.