It seems to me that the question “Will they say?” is not just a reflection of Hardy's attitude towards life, but also a hint at the possibility that no one will notice him, no one will say anything. It is doubt, hidden sadness, and perhaps regret about a world where modesty, subtle feelings, observation, and attention to nature are not valued..
Yes, exactly. Apparently he wrote this before he died and they read it at his funeral. The questions suggest he is pondering what they'll say afterwards, and hoping it is those things they'll remember him for. Nice observation.
It seems to me that the question “Will they say?” is not just a reflection of Hardy's attitude towards life, but also a hint at the possibility that no one will notice him, no one will say anything. It is doubt, hidden sadness, and perhaps regret about a world where modesty, subtle feelings, observation, and attention to nature are not valued..
Yes, exactly. Apparently he wrote this before he died and they read it at his funeral. The questions suggest he is pondering what they'll say afterwards, and hoping it is those things they'll remember him for. Nice observation.