Scaffolding Poem Explanation

                      Scaffolding     

  Theme of the poem

The poem is about strong relationship that develops either between two friends or couples; and this bond of relationship, with the passage of time, becomes stronger and stronger just like a concrete wall. Just as  scaffolding is required for building a structure till it gains strength, in the same way human relationship needs support, cooperation and time to make it indestructible.

In the first two lines the poet says that masons need to prepare a scaffolding adjacent to a wall that is being constructed. They’re also very careful about the temporary structure that they need for the construction of a wall. This suggests that we should be also careful while trying to develop friendship with our friends.

They also tie the planks very carefully so as not to slip at busy points. Ladders are also fixed properly, and the bolts are tightened around joints so as to give a firm structure to the scaffolding.

However, when the construction of walls of sure and solid stone is over, the scaffolding comes down and is removed.

In the next two lines of the poem, the poet addresses his friend that he should not be worried even if it seems to him the past arguments might break the bond of love between him and the poet because they have already built a strong bond of relationship between them.

 He says that there is no need to fear even the removal of scaffolds as they have built this wall; and now they don’t need outside support. It means they have a strong relationship.

Conclusion

The poet wants to say that at the initial time we need support, cooperation and time to develop a relationship with our friends. But when we become successful in developing the bond of love between us, the old ties don’t matter as the scaffolding is removed once the construction is over because they have already built a strong structure.

 It means that there might be misunderstandings or arguments between us in the past, but we need to leave those as scaffolding isn’t required once the strong wall is built.