We Lying by Seasand by Dylan Thomas
The narrative revolves around a young boy's journey through the Welsh landscape, exploring themes of identity, nationality and the complexities of growing up. The story delves into the protagonist's inner world, where he grapples with his own sense of self amidst the cultural and linguistic tensions between Wales and England. Through the boy's experiences, the narrative critiques the notion of a singular national identity, instead highlighting the fluidity and diversity that exist within any given culture. The text also explores the relationship between language and identity, as the protagonist navigates the complexities of speaking Welsh in an English-dominated environment. Ultimately, the story presents a nuanced portrayal of adolescence, where the protagonist's struggles to define himself are mirrored by the broader societal tensions that shape his world.
By Dylan Thomas · First published 1947 · Genre: Poetry, Modernist, Symbolism · 236 words
First lines
We lying by seasand, watching yellow And the grave sea, mock who deride Who follow the red rivers, hollow Alcove of words out of cicada shade,
For in this yellow grave of sand and sea A calling for colour calls with the wind That's grave and gay as grave and sea Sleeping on either hand.
The lunar silences, the silent tide
Lapping the still canals, the dry tide-master Ribbed between desert and water storm, Should cure our ills of the water With a one-coloured calm; The heavenly music over the sand
What this Textopian page supports
We Lying by Seasand is listed on Textopian as a poem by Dylan Thomas, dated 1947 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Dylan Thomas
- Date: 1947 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Modernist, Symbolism, Nature, Romantic
- Length: 236 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme, meter, and vivid imagery typical of poetry.
- Modernist — The themes of nature, introspection, and complex imagery align with modernist literary characteristics.
- Symbolism — The use of symbolic language and imagery, such as 'yellow grave' and 'lunar silences,' suggests deeper meanings beyond the literal.
- Nature — The poem prominently features natural elements like the sea, sand, and wind, focusing on their interaction and impact.
Tags
Poetry · Autobiographical · Memoir · Literary Fiction · Wales · Welsh Literature · Coming of Age · Self-Discovery · Identity Crisis · Family Dynamics · Social Commentary · Psychological Insight