Critical Summary of Hawk's Monologue the poem written by Ted Hughes
Ted Hughes, using the persona of a wild bird, discusses the psychology and cruel nature of the power drunk. A man in power is on top of all affairs. He says his "eyes are closed". He is indifferent. He is careless. He is playing the game of life even while dreaming, called "rehearse" to kill.
Nature or Fate, has provided him the "convenience of high trees"; trees resemble high status and position. Things are favorable for him to rule. He claims the earth is has opened it for him to prey. All is made for him.
Power often corrupts man. He is very proud. He believes his "feet are locked upon" the position he holds. No one can remove him. He is the most important among creation. He is the most superior. Therefore, ironically, he seems right in saying "now I hold creation in my foot". He is contemptuous of the creation except himself.
He deems himself all powerful. He will prey where he pleases. His body is designed for the tasks of cruelty. He is neither weak nor gentle. He is a warrior and smooth decision maker.
"Allotment of death" is his right. He may pierce the bones of the living. Nobody can argue over his right. His superior position and the power he holds are backed up by some design of nature.
He has a firm belief that the source of life and power "is behind" him. His power remains unchallenged since he began. He has not permitted any change. Captured in the illusion of his pride and power, he is confident that he is "going to keep things like this".
History is evident that man becomes blind to his faults and errors while in power. He holds people in contempt. He crushes the rules and regulations under his feet. He is above law.
