When reading this poem, I found that it was easy to follow and understand. This poem comments on the simplicity of how life was for a traditional couple. The tone throughout the poem seems to be nostalgic and is sweet.
In the first stanza, the poet is basically describing a couple that appears to live a simple life. The use of imagery allows for the reader to understand what is being said in the poem and gives a glimpse of this couple's life. We learn the couple "eat[s] beans mostly" and "dinner is a casual affair," which indicates that mealtimes are normal yet special. Images such as "plain chipware," "plain and creaking wood" and "tin flatware" support the idea that there's nothing extraordinary about this couple.
In the second stanza, the couple is described as "Mostly Good" and people "who have lived their day." Because the couple is described in this way, the reader learns they are ordinary people who have done as they're supposed to and lived day by day. This also indicates the couple is older which is significant later in the poem. This stanza also includes that the couple "keep[s] on putting on their clothes and putting things away." This detail implies that the couple just keeps on carrying on through life in theirs routines. Also, I noticed that the phrase "Mostly Good" was capitalized which probably means the couple was religious and mostly good in their faith.
Lastly, in the final stanza, the poet provides the image of the couple reminiscing over their lives as they simply eat beans in their house of character. As mentioned earlier, the detail that the couple is older is now important as they are reminiscing because this indicates the couple has lived a long life and had many experiences and memories to reflect on.
Overall this poem shines light on the concept that a simple and happy life with the people you need and love is fulfilling. Extraordinary and glamorous lifestyles are not always as they seem.