Although when writers T.S. Elliot, Edwin Arlington Robinson, and Andrew Marvell wrote their respective poems society was noticeably different from what it is today, their themes of indecision, loneliness, carpe diem, spiritual emptiness, joy of living, are still reflected in today’s society. Themes, such as loneliness and indecision which Elliot conveys in his “The Love Song of J Alfred Prufrock,” spiritual emptiness expressed in both of Robinson’s poems titled “Richard Cory” and “Miniver Cheevy,” and that of carpe diem seen in Marvell’s “To His Coy Mistress” are feelings that people experience to this date. In Elliot’s poem, the main character J.Alfred Prufrock is experiencing a mid-life crisis filled with the indecision, loneliness and insecurities that closely resemble the troubles of teenage angst.. Both of Robinson’s poems carry a theme of spiritual emptiness which is exemplified in today’s society’s by celebrities, people we consider icons. Marvell’s theme of carpe diem or seize the day is one that can be seen today at every turn in this day and age.

T.S. Elliot used a bachelor in his mid-life crisis name J. Alfred Prufrock to express the themes of loneliness and indecision. In the poem, Prufrock ask himself “And indeed there will be time to wonder Do I dare? and Do I dare?” as does any teenager when confronted with any decision. Proufrock questioned such simple tasks as eating a peach, although I can’t relate to this, indecision is something that haunts everyone. From wondering what to wear in the morning to revealing your deepest secrets, Prufrock’s life
is full of indecision. As I have seen within my quest for college, and on my journey to discover who I’ll ultimately be as an adult, indecision haunts me, as it haunts Prufrock.