Introduction:

‘Ulysses’ is a monologue dramatic which Ulysses, the king of Ithaca expresses his unquenchable thirst of travelling to do achievements in his life till the last breath. Ulysses does not want to be an idle king. He doesn’t like to be at home with his elderly wife. He thinks that the people of his kingdom are savage race – people who eat and sleep not knowing their king.

Life to the lees:

Ulysses cannot rest (stop) from travel. He wants to drink life to the lees. He wants to live a long lovely life till the last breath. (Lees means drink up to the last drop). He has given equal importance to enjoyment and sufferings (both). He has seen the world. He has been honoured everywhere. He wants to roam with a hungry heart. He has seen and known the manners of climates, councils and governments.

Life piled on life:

Breathing and living is not life. Ulysses wants to do something special (adventure) and be active always. Life without adventure is meaningless. Every hour has some experience to offer.

Desire to hand over:

Ulysses desires to hand over his kingdom to his son Telemachus, who would fulfill his duties towards his subject with care and prudence (cautiousness). Ulysses is happy that his son would do his work blamelessly. Telemachus possesses patience and has the will to curlize the citizens of Ithaca in a tender way.

Ulysses calls to unknown lands:

Ulysses calls his mariners (sailors) to gather at the poet where the ship is ready to sail. They are united by this undying spirit of adventure. Ulysses urges his companions to join him and sail beyond the sunset.

Conclusion:

These brave hearts, who had once moved heaven and earth, may have grown old and week physically, but their spirit is young and undaunted. His call is an inspiration for all those who seek true knowledge and meaningful life.

For always roaming with a hungry heart

All experience is an arch

To follow knowledge like a sinking star.