"Death of a Toad" by Richard Wilbur

Paper Summary:

The toad in this poem is described in abstract terms, but it is not representative of all "humble ends." This paper explains that the toad in the poem is a complex subject, both representing undeniable life, but not representative of all of its kind. It shows how, through Wilbur's diction, style, and tone, the toad is shown to the reader as holding a unique life-force, although not capable of controlling it.

From the Paper:

"The speaker created by Richard Wilbur in his poem "Death of a Toad," sees the undeniable life in the toad he watches slowly die after being "chewed and clipped" in a power mower. The speaker watches the toad hobble towards the garden's edge and lie down in the shade. With his life pouring out of him and puddled into dark red creases on his skin, the toad dies as the speaker looks on, empathizing with the toad and even mournful of his death."

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