Short Answer 
The answer discusses John Keats’ poems “Ode on a Grecian Urn” and “On Seeing the Elgin Marbles,” highlighting their themes of art’s relationship with time. It contrasts the celebration of eternal beauty in the first poem with the second’s contemplation of art’s transformation over time, emphasizing the interplay between permanence and transience in Keats’ work.
Step 1: Identify the Poets and Their Works
The two poems, “Ode on a Grecian Urn” and “On Seeing the Elgin Marbles”, are crafted by the renowned poet John Keats. Understanding the authorship sets the foundation for analyzing the themes present in these works, which reflect Keats’ perspectives on art and time.
Step 2: Explore the Themes of the Poems
Each poem presents distinct themes regarding the nature of art and its relation to time. “Ode on a Grecian Urn” emphasizes the concept of eternity and unchanging truth in art, celebrating its timeless beauty. In contrast, “On Seeing the Elgin Marbles” delves into the idea of how art transforms over time, highlighting the passing nature of existence and the inevitable changes that occur.
Step 3: Analyze Comparative Aspects of Seasons and Time
Both poems intricately weave the themes of seasonality and time, drawing comparisons through specific lines. For instance,
- “Ode on a Grecian Urn” mentions, “shed Your leaves, nor ever bid the spring adieu.”
- In contrast, “On Seeing the Elgin Marbles” states, “billowy main, a sun, a shadow.”
- the Urn suggests “ever piping songs for ever new”
- while the Marbles reflect on “rude wasting of old times.”