The Setting:
* The poem begins with an abandoned farmhouse, "in neglect," suggesting a life once lived and now forgotten. This immediately sets a tone of melancholy and decay.
* The image of "the wall" suggests boundaries and enclosure, further emphasizing the isolation of the abandoned place.
* Nature is encroaching on the man-made structures, symbolizing the relentless passage of time and nature's eventual victory over human efforts.
The Speaker:
* The poem doesn't explicitly state who the speaker is, but they likely represent a detached observer, perhaps even the ghost of a past resident.
* The speaker's tone is introspective and melancholic, reflecting on the "days" that have passed and the "little things" that were once valued.
* Their observations suggest a sense of loss and longing for a bygone era.
The Themes:
* Abandonment: The poem's central theme revolves around the feeling of being left behind, both physically and emotionally. The abandoned house embodies the emptiness of a life no longer lived.
* Decay and Time: The decaying farmhouse and the encroaching wilderness symbolize the inevitable passage of time and the decay that follows. Nothing, not even the memories of the past, can withstand the relentless march of time.
* Memory and Loss: The speaker's focus on "little things" suggests an attempt to hold onto the past, to remember a time when life was full and meaningful. However, these memories are fading, just like the physical structure of the house.
Interpretation:
* "In Neglect" can be interpreted as a meditation on the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of loss.
* It highlights the importance of cherishing the present moment and acknowledging the impermanence of all things.
* The poem also serves as a reminder of the power of nature and its relentless cycle of growth and decay.
Ultimately, the poem's meaning is open to individual interpretation. It invites the reader to reflect on their own experiences with loss, memory, and the passage of time.