'Say Not the Struggle Naught Availeth' Summary

The title poem, "Say Not the Struggle Naught Availeth," encapsulates Clough's central concern: the futility of striving for a greater good in a world that often seems indifferent. He questions the value of human effort in the face of overwhelming challenges and the inevitability of death. The collection also delves into themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. Clough's poetry is characterized by its lyrical beauty, nuanced language, and insightful reflections on the human condition. He was deeply influenced by the Romantic poets, but he also brought a critical and skeptical perspective to their ideals. Clough's work is not merely a lament for lost faith or a rejection of traditional values but a complex exploration of the human struggle to find meaning and purpose in a world of uncertainty and change.