How do you think the comparison between transient and permanent life is shown by the poet in his poem the seafarer?

In "The Seafarer," the poet contrasts the transient nature of life on land with the enduring challenges and hardships faced by seafarers. The speaker describes the fleeting pleasures and comforts of life on land, such as wealth, power, and social status, as ultimately meaningless and impermanent. In contrast, the seafarer's life is depicted as a constant struggle against the harsh elements and unpredictable dangers of the sea, which serve as a metaphor for the enduring trials and tribulations of human existence.

The poet emphasizes the impermanence of earthly pleasures and the inevitability of death, contrasting this with the seafarer's unwavering commitment to his journey and his willingness to endure hardship and suffering in pursuit of a higher purpose. Through this comparison, the poet suggests that a life of purpose and meaning is found not in the pursuit of fleeting pleasures and material wealth, but in the enduring struggle for self-discovery and spiritual fulfillment.

Contrast between Transient and Permanent Life in "The Seafarer":

In "The Seafarer," the poet juxtaposes the transient nature of earthly life with the enduring nature of the soul and the heavenly realm.

Transient Life:

- Depicted as a "weaving of words," symbolizing the brevity and impermanence of earthly experiences.
- Described as a "narrow house" and a "sea-chest," emphasizing its constricted and temporary nature.
- Characterized by hardship, sorrow, and the inevitable approach of death.
- Represented by the restless sea, which relentlessly changes and washes away the land.

Permanent Life:

- Presented as a "homeland," a place of everlasting peace and joy.
- Symbolized by the "bright land," a celestial realm free from earthly suffering.
- Characterized by eternal life and communion with the divine.
- Represented by the "lord of glory" and the "heavenly kingdom," which offer refuge from the storms of earthly existence.

Comparison:

- Physical vs. Spiritual: Earthly life is physical and impermanent, while the afterlife is spiritual and everlasting.
- Changeable vs. Immutable: Earthly life is marked by constant change, while the afterlife is characterized by unchanging stability.
- Transient vs. Enduring: Earthly experiences are fleeting, while the soul and its eternal destiny persist beyond death.
- Narrow vs. Expansive: Earthly life is limited and restrictive, while the afterlife offers freedom and boundless joy.
- Stormy vs. Calm: Earthly life is fraught with hardships, while the afterlife is a haven of peace and tranquility.

The poet uses vivid imagery and powerful metaphors to convey the stark contrast between the transience of earthly life and the permanence of the heavenly realm. By emphasizing the ephemeral nature of worldly possessions and pleasures, the poem encourages readers to focus on the eternal and to seek solace in the spiritual realm.