Why, do you think, does the father appear so helpless?

In "The Voice of the Rain" by Walt Whitman, while there isn't a direct reference to a father figure, one could interpret the sense of helplessness conveyed in the poem as representative of the human condition in the face of natural forces. Here are some reasons why the figure in the poem might appear helpless:

1. Vulnerability to Nature: The poem emphasizes the power and omnipresence of rain, which can permeate through roofs, walls, and windows. This imagery suggests that humans are vulnerable to the forces of nature and may feel helpless in the face of natural phenomena such as rainstorms.

2. Inability to Control Circumstances: The rain is depicted as a natural phenomenon that operates beyond human control. This portrayal highlights the limitations of human agency and the inability to control or manipulate the forces of nature. The figure in the poem may feel helpless because they cannot change or alter the course of events.

3. Sense of Powerlessness: The repetitive imagery of rain falling and streaming down surfaces creates a sense of inevitability and powerlessness. The figure in the poem may feel overwhelmed by the relentless nature of the rain and powerless to change their circumstances or protect themselves from its effects.

4. Symbolism of Larger Themes: The helplessness conveyed in the poem may also symbolize broader themes of human existence, such as the fragility of life, the inevitability of change, and the uncertainties of the future. The figure in the poem represents humanity as a whole, grappling with existential questions and confronting the reality of their own mortality.

Overall, the sense of helplessness in "The Voice of the Rain" reflects the vulnerability and limitations of human existence in the face of natural forces and larger existential questions. While the figure in the poem may appear helpless, their experiences resonate with universal themes of human struggle and resilience in the face of adversity.