Ariel Poems - A Song for Simeon Summary

In this poem, an old man looks at the last years he has ahead and talks of waiting for death. This is a recurrent theme in T.S. Eliot's work. The old man considers what lies ahead for Israel, when their time of testing comes at the hands of foreign invaders. This man asks for consoling help from the Infant Jesus - not yet old enough to begin his work. It is obvious this man believes Jesus is the answer to Israel's woes. However, he acknowledges that those who follow Jesus will have joy, but also hardship, and will face martyrdom. He knows he will not face martyrdom but feels pain for those who will. He asks the Lord to take him, now, in his old age, as he believes in...