, and the trials and hardships that they endure, day in and day out, add to the essence of their existence, one that lends acceptance to the fact that they are somewhat more than men, that their labor, however menial, is somewhat mechanized, somewhat heroic, and altogether driven by a pride and ethic valued among their people.While Heaney emphasizes the automation of their existence and the tediousness of their work, he still illustrates their humanity with the same type of imagery that likens them to machines. On lines 15-16, Heaney uses the phrase, “By God”, something that emphasizes their humanity, for the words “old man” are also used in these lines, perhaps to create the idea of man in the image of God--something that reminds the reader of the essence of mankind, and that even though these men may become mechanized in their labor, nevertheless they retain that very core of their being that makes them men, something that no amount of work can drive out. This two line stanza that ties grandfather to father highlights the faith of this tough people, one untainted by the hard work that is the signature of their existence.Along with his reference to God, to show his awe, and disbelief at the skill of his forebears, Heaney also emphasizes their humanity, when he carried his grandfather’s “milk in a bottle/Corked sloppily with paper.” (19-20) This moment, where his grandfather gives in to human needs, reiterates the fact that while he may be sublimating his humanity when he is “nicking and slicing”, he is nonetheless still a man, needing nourishment--though the image is equally potent as a machine, perhaps a lawn mower, refueling. This double meaning connects Heaneys idea of men-machines nicely, creating the ideal of a hybrid race, one that can drive down all but the base urges of man to get the job done, day in and day out. Seamus Heaney finally ties himself to the legacy of his fa...
