The first three lines describing the raging storm outside set the scene and mood and act as a planting point which will branch out chains of events through the entire poem.The description of Porphyria entering inside the cottage (line 7) completely changes the mood of the poem into an atmosphere of calmness.It almost suggests her presence shut out the storm, and invited warmness which indicates the strength of her personality maybe.
Whilst narrating the poem, her lover doesn't seem to specify their gender role, which gives the reader an element of self involvement to make up their own character of what they'd like her lover to be/look like.
From the middle section of the poem, it seems as though the writer is describing Porphyria and her lover through their actions whilst they are in each others companyI am given the impression that they are opposites of eachother.Porphyria was actively moving around the cottage, while her lover seemed to be positioned in one place.Porphyria speaks and calls her lover, whilst her lover doesnt seem to talk even reply when he/she was called.Porphyria came from the outside world ,while her lover seems to prefer their own company alone.
After having Porphyria pour out her heart to her lover (line 21-22), her lover speaks very flatted by her love for him/her (line 31-34) which may have began to turn into selfish, obsessive and possessive love (line 36).
The poem takes a disturbing and shocking turn when Porphyria is strangled by her own hair.From this point her lover doesn't seem to show any regret or remorse, infact they seem almost comforted at the thought that they murdered Porphyria knowing that she loved them, therefore she will never live to love another again and he/she will use this thought to reassure themselves that they will forever love each other.A great love tragedy!
