When he is forsaken, withered and shaken, what can an old man do but die?

When he is forsaken, withered and shaken, what can an old man do but die?

Thomas Hood was a renowned English poet and humorist who lived during the early 19th century. Known for his wit and satirical writing, Hood often explored themes of mortality, loss, and the passage of time in his works. One of his most famous poems, "The Death Bed," reflects on the inevitability of death and the futility of fighting against it.

The line "When he is forsaken, withered and shaken, what can an old man do but die?" encapsulates the sense of resignation and acceptance that often accompanies old age. In the poem, Hood describes a dying man who is surrounded by loved ones but ultimately faces death alone. Despite the efforts of those around him to comfort and console him, the old man knows that his time has come and there is nothing he can do but accept his fate.

This sentiment is echoed in many of Hood's other works, where he grapples with the idea of mortality and the fleeting nature of life. In "The Song of the Shirt," for example, Hood laments the plight of a poor seamstress who toils endlessly to make ends meet, only to die in obscurity and poverty. The poem serves as a powerful reminder of the fragility of life and the inevitability of death, no matter how hard one may try to avoid it.

Hood's writing often reflects a deep sense of empathy and compassion for those who are suffering or marginalized in society. His works are filled with poignant observations about the human condition and the struggles that we all face, regardless of our station in life. In "When he is forsaken, withered and shaken, what can an old man do but die?" Hood captures the essence of the human experience in all its complexity and beauty, reminding us of our shared humanity and the inevitability of our own mortality.