Final answer:
The poem 'The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock' demonstrates the theme of futility, particularly through Prufrock's indecisive nature and fear of judgment. His hesitation in confessing his feelings epitomizes the poem's sense of ennui.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student has asked for an example of futility (ennui) in 'The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock' by T.S. Eliot. The poem exhibits themes of futility characterized by Prufrock's incessant questioning and self-doubt, which emphasize his inability to take decisive action. One example of this can be found in the lines:
'And indeed there will be time / To wonder, "Do I dare?" and, "Do I dare?" / Time to turn back and descend the stair.'
Here, Prufrock's indecision and fear of societal judgment render his thoughts and desires futile, as he is trapped in an endless cycle of hesitation and regret. The sense of ennui is further encapsulated by his reluctance to confess his feelings to the unnamed “you” in the poem, signifying the futility of his love and his internal struggles. The melancholic tone of this monologue reflects the complexity of modern life's disappointments and unfulfilled desires, resonating with the feelings of futility and existential ennui that are part of human experience.