Up-Hill

Question 1

“Does the road wind up-hill all the way?
Yes, to the very end.”

Answer 1

Up-Hill:
- Indicative of a lengthy journey with many obstacles
- Uncertain tone reflective of Rossetti’s struggles with manic depression
- Clipped response reveals a measured and calm response from Christ
- Speaks honestly, preparing her for her journey into the after-life
- Metaphorical road as the speaker’s progression from life to death
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Question 2

“Is there for the night a resting-place?
A roof for when the slow dark hours begin.”

Answer 2

Up-Hill:
- “But” reflects initial uncertainty to follow the voice
- “Resting place” is an allusion to the Anglican belief of the sleep-state
- Semantics of safety and solace, the “inn” could be an allusion to the birthplace of Christ
- “Slow dark hours” could be considered a metaphor for death and the roof is the destination that the voice is guiding Rossetti towards

Question 3

“Shall I meet other wayfarers at night?
Those who have gone before.”

Answer 3

Up-Hill:
- Conditional “Shall” presents more willingness to obey the voice, asking whether she will be accompanied on her journey
- The speaker suggests that there is an element of comfort provided by company, the reassuring answer follows as always
- The voice answers reassuring her that this journey is a part of life and that everyone must walk that path

Question 4

“Shall I find comfort, travel-sore and weak?
Of labour you shall find the sum.”

Answer 4

Up-Hill:
- List of 3 reflects fragility and suffering upon her journey
- Voice responds again with honesty, stating that hard work and “labour” will reveal the reward of rebirth in Heaven
- Ultimately, the speaker seeks comfort from Christ upon her journey to the afterlife
- Even at the end of the “road”, the speaker still yearns for the guidance of the voice

Question 5

“Will there be beds for me and all who seek?
Yea, beds for all who come.”

Answer 5

Up-Hill:
- Consistent image of comfort and solace at the final destination
- “Beds” as metaphors for comfort in heaven
- Raises ambiguity as the speaker, although reassure of a place in heaven, still has ongoing doubts
- Contrasts the idea of original sin and predestination, that each person must make their own strenuous journey through life to achieve the final reward in heaven
- Powerful final statement, leaves no doubt with the speaker that there is a definite place in heaven for all, if they seek it out
- Implication that faith and trust truly matter in salvation