The Hired Man

The Hired Man is a narrative poem by British poet and author Robert Frost, first published in 1914 as part of the collection North of Boston. It is considered one of Frost's most significant and enduring works. The poem utilizes a dramatic dialogue between a farmer, Warren, and his wife, Mary, concerning Silas, a former farmhand who has returned to their farm to die.

The poem explores themes of home, belonging, loyalty, and the nature of work. Warren views Silas as an unreliable and somewhat shiftless worker, focusing on his shortcomings and lack of consistent commitment. Mary, in contrast, exhibits compassion and understanding for Silas, suggesting that his return is motivated by a deep need for connection and a sense of home.

The central conflict revolves around Warren's interpretation of "home" and his definition of a good worker. He struggles to accept Silas's unconventional nature and his reluctance to fully dedicate himself to farm labor. Mary argues that home is where they have to take you in, regardless of your usefulness or past actions.

Silas's skills and motivations are also examined. While capable, he seems more interested in teaching a local boy how to load hay and other less demanding tasks. His desire to impart knowledge and form connections highlights a deeper longing beyond simply performing manual labor.

The Hired Man is characterized by its realistic portrayal of rural life in New England and its use of colloquial language. The poem's enduring appeal lies in its exploration of universal human themes and its complex, nuanced characters. The ambiguity of Silas's motivations and the unresolved tension between Warren and Mary contribute to the poem's richness and interpretive possibilities.