Old Age
In his final poetry collection, Yeats necessarily addresses old age. He appears to hold both resentment and gracious recognition, bordering on acceptance, of the dusk of life. In poems like "The Black Tower" he focuses upon the physical withdrawal of strength. These men are resting in a continual state of resistance, trying to stand firm against the wind. They are incapable of defying their circumstances, which appear to have been simplified over time. Where once was possession and renown, now is duty and suffering. On the other hand, "In Tara's Halls" reveals a clear defiance to the signs of aging. This man is set in his ways, determined to continue on as he has before, yet in his defiance there is an admission of inevitability. Yeats can be interpreted in both poems to dwell upon not only age but the attitude with which one approaches weakness.
Recovery After War
Yeats features several figures of previous wars, real or fictional. They are portrayed in various states of reconstruction after such a pivotal time. The conflict may not be war even so much as unnamed physical violence. The men in "The Black Tower" are compared to soldiers, operating under a strict oath. Although they are old and weak, they owe something and thus defend their ground despite overwhelming odds against. Perhaps the young men have all died already, and this is the last chance. "Chuchulain Comforted" explores how this young man has served the Irish people so faithfully. In the time following battle, he should be rejoicing; instead he remains silent and restful. Apparently he has taken no satisfaction in the violence and must make his peace with the past.
Condemnation of Inaction
Yeats expresses a repeated criticism, though veiled. Having experienced a significant amount of frustration with the democratic policies of Ireland in recent years, he writes about the kind of complacency that he sees democracy has brought to the political environment. Poems like "News For The Delphic Oracle" depict gods of admirable power, reposing. The oracle has all but been abandoned because the great heroes have long since taken their rest. Bringing the point home, Yeats includes several local Irish figures in the same stance. They have all given up, preferring relaxation to vigilance.
