The Mortal Lease by Edith Wharton
The poem explores the themes of love, mortality, and the human experience. It begins by describing the primal forces that bring two people together, and how this connection is rooted in the natural world. The speaker reflects on the journey of life, acknowledging the struggles and pains that come with it, but also the beauty and wonder. The poem then shifts to a more intimate tone, with the speaker addressing their lover directly. They describe the passion and desire they feel, comparing it to the power of nature. However, this is contrasted with the reality of mortality, and how even in the midst of love, death lurks in the background. Throughout the poem, there are references to mythology and the supernatural, suggesting that human experience is connected to something greater than itself. The speaker also touches on the idea that some people's hearts are carefree and joyful, while others are marked by struggle and hardship. Ultimately, the poem concludes by acknowledging the complexity of human existence, with all its contradictions and mysteries. It suggests that even in the face of uncertainty, love and connection can be a source of strength and beauty.
By Edith Wharton · First published 1917 · Genre: Poetry, Romantic, Philosophical · 1,359 words
First lines
I
BECAUSE the currents of our love are poured Through the slow welter of the primal flood From some blind source of monster-haunted mud, And flung together by random forces stored Ere the vast void with rushing worlds was scored -- Because we know ourselves but the dim scud Tossed from their heedless keels, the sea-blown bud That wastes and scatters ere the wave has roared --
What this Textopian page supports
The Mortal Lease is listed on Textopian as a poem by Edith Wharton, dated 1917 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Edith Wharton
- Date: 1917 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romantic, Philosophical
- Length: 1,359 words
- Structure: 1 section, 26 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Similar titles
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- Life by Edith Wharton
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- The Muses Tragedy by Edith Wharton
- The Reckoning by Edith Wharton
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, with a rhythmic and rhyming structure, and uses figurative language and imagery.
- Romantic — The work explores themes of love, passion, and longing, often in a highly emotional and dramatic manner.
- Philosophical — The work delves into deep existential and metaphysical questions, reflecting on the nature of life, love, and mortality.
Tags
Romance · Novel · Classic Literature · American Fiction · Social Commentary · Marriage · Love Triangle · Infidelity · Upper Class · Society · Morality · Ethics