Structurally, the poem is divided into three sections. The lines and stanzas are written in various lengths. The poem, ‘The Tower’ doesn’t follow any set for. Though he seems to be annoyed of this inevitable old age in the beginning, he comes to reconciliation, in the final section, where he presents his “Will” or “Political Testament” The poet enquires about the people who spent their life in love and passion if they too felt the same way as the poet at old age. By the time, when he realized that his strength is deteriorating, he was young and matured in his mind, with afresh imagination. The central idea or the theme of ‘The Tower’ revolves around the poet’s reaction to his own physical infirmity brought by time. Also, he finds it to be the right time to prepare his body and his mind for death, either his own or those people he has loved. He concludes stating that he is ready to die with some ancient poetry and the love of women. Further, he expresses his contempt for Plato and Plotinus, for he doesn’t want to take any sides. The speaker wows to follow Grattan and Burke. As he reaches the third section, his understanding of his age looks much stable. For he thinks a woman lost is an irretrievable mistake. Failing to get a satisfactory answer, he enquires Hanrahan, whether one thinks more often of a woman won or lost. The speaker is curious to know if the people he remembered so far too felt the same way as he feels now. He also thinks of those who walked around the house dressed for war. One such man is the former master of the poet’s house. He also thinks of some people who could be cheered with neither love nor music. French, a legendary peasant girl, and the character Hanrahan created by him. He walks to and fro atop the tower and remembers the wealthy Mrs. Nevertheless, he is aware that it is time to say goodbye to poetry and choose reason, to match his age. While he is getting weaker physically, he feels growing more passionate and inspired than ever. Yeats describes the absurdity of becoming old.

‘The Tower’ begins with the poet’s reluctance to accept his old age, but ends with a more calming and assertive note of following his inspirers Burke and Gratton.

Towers by Matthew Bryant