In the poem, time appears to overshadow the seemingly peaceful present reflected in the painting. The poet takes advantage of the painting’s lack of detail in order to brandish his own backstory. He takes the innocent and calm features of the painting and makes it a commentary about the passage of time and the dangers of life. The poet’s allusion to Munch’s Scream complicates the ekphrasis even further. The allusion serves to remind the readers of Munch’s true mental state. Munch has always lived a troubled life and his best works are often gloomy and dark.
