Mending Wall by Robert Frost │Summary

 

Summary-

Robert Frost’s poem Mending Wall explores the themes of boundaries, relationships, and human nature through the act of repairing a stone wall between two neighbors. The speaker questions the necessity of the wall, arguing that nature itself works against it, as gaps appear mysteriously each year. He sees the wall as an outdated barrier, especially since their properties do not require separation—one neighbor has apple trees and the other has pine trees, neither of which will cross the boundary.

Despite this, the speaker’s neighbor insists on maintaining the wall, repeating the phrase, “Good fences make good neighbors.” This reflects a traditional mindset, suggesting that boundaries help maintain order and relationships. The speaker, however, is skeptical, wondering if walls create unnecessary divisions rather than fostering connection.

The poem presents a contrast between tradition and change, as well as isolation and openness. Through vivid imagery and conversational tone, Frost challenges the reader to consider whether walls—both physical and metaphorical—truly strengthen relationships or simply reinforce outdated customs.