The Object of the Poem The object of the poem, "Le Mendiant" (The Beggar), is a metaphorical exploration of the human condition and the search for meaning. While the title suggests a focus on a beggar, the poem uses powerful, often conflicting imagery to discuss: Doubt and Hope: The opening line "Le doute n'est de nos os" (Doubt is not of our bones) immediately sets a theme of intrinsic hope or resilience, contrasted with a "morose" flight. Solitude and Immensity: It contrasts the feeling of sinking into "profonde solitude" with the "âme immense" (immense soul) that tries to embrace the vastness of the ocean and sky. The Inner Self and Perception: The "miroir où se reflète un front double" (mirror where a double brow is reflected) suggests the dual nature of man—perhaps the self we present and the self we hide—while the "cœurs cryptés" (cryptic hearts) laugh and whisper secrets. Escape and Disturbance: The soul is depicted as a bird trying to escape the constraints of "ces songes tout gris" (these all-gray dreams), ultimately "trouble ton repos" (disturbing your peace). In short, the object is to articulate the existential struggle of the soul against doubt and solitude as it seeks connection and meaning in an overwhelming world. The beggar in the title is likely a symbol for humanity, stripped bare and dependent on inner truth.