Bradstreet begins by contrasting the flesh as 'corrupt' and 'frail', portraying it as a source of temptation and weakness. She describes it as 'a wretched lump, of sinful filth and mire' and laments that it is 'eaten up with rust'. This negative view of the flesh aligns with Puritan beliefs that the body is inherently sinful and that humans are prone to corruption and堕落.
In contrast, Bradstreet describes the spirit as 'pure', 'immortal', and 'ethereal', associating it with qualities such as 'light', 'heav'nly', and 'glory'. She sees the spirit as the true essence of the individual, a reflection of the divine within us. Bradstreet's portrayal of the spirit is reminiscent of the Puritan emphasis on the soul's salvation and the pursuit of spiritual purity.
Throughout the poem, Bradstreet uses various metaphors to further explore the conflict between flesh and spirit. She likens the flesh to 'a slave' and the spirit to 'a prince', conveying the idea that the spirit should have dominion over the flesh. She also compares the flesh to 'a weed' that grows 'rank' and 'wild' in contrast to the 'flower' of the spirit, which represents beauty, grace, and spiritual growth.
Bradstreet concludes the poem by expressing a desire to 'throw away this dross (flesh)' and to have her 'spirit so quicken'd' that it might overcome the flesh. This longing for spiritual transcendence is a central theme in Puritan literature, reflecting the belief in the ultimate triumph of the spirit over the flesh and the soul's journey toward heavenly perfection.
Overall, 'Flesh and Spirit' delves into the fundamental Puritan dichotomy of human nature, highlighting the struggle between the physical and spiritual aspects of the self. Bradstreet's use of contrasting imagery and metaphors conveys the Puritan belief in the need to subdue the desires of the flesh in order to achieve spiritual purity and salvation.