Doubt no more that Oheron

Name: Doubt no more that Oheron
Author: Edna St. Vincent Millay

The poem explores themes of nature, mythology, and the contrast between the past and present. It begins with a confident assertion of the existence of mythical figures like Oberon and Pan, suggesting a time when belief in such beings was common and accepted. The speaker reminisces about a more innocent era filled with magic and wonder, where fauns and fairies roamed freely, embodying the spirit of nature and joy. As the poem progresses, it shifts to a more somber tone, reflecting on the current age, which is described as "dourest" and "sorest." This juxtaposition highlights a loss of innocence and the fading of enchantment in the modern world. The imagery of death to fauns and fays signifies the decline of myth and magic, suggesting that the harsh realities of life have overshadowed the beauty and whimsy once prevalent. Despite this bleakness, the poem introduces a resilient element of nature, represented by the dogwood tree, which continues to thrive even in adversity. The mention of "ivory bowls that bear no fruit" symbolizes unfulfilled potential and the stark contrast between past abundance and present barrenness. However, the return of birds like starlings and jays in spring serves as a glimmer of hope, indicating that life persists and nature continues to renew itself, even in a world that seems devoid of magic. Overall, the work reflects on the tension between nostalgia for a lost world of wonder and the enduring strength of nature, suggesting that while the mythical may fade, the essence of life and renewal remains. The poem invites readers to contemplate the relationship between humanity and the natural world, as well as the enduring power of belief and imagination in the face of reality.

By Edna St. Vincent Millay · First published 1920 · Genre: Poetry, Fantasy, Nature Writing · 147 words

First lines

Doubt no more that Oberon- Never doubt that Pan Lived, and played a reed, and ran

After nymphs in a dark forest, In the merry, credulous days,- Lived, and led a fairy band Over the indulgent land!

Ah, for in this dourest, sorest Age man's eye has looked upon, Death to fauns and death to fays, Still the dog-wood dares to raise- Healthy tree, with trunk and root- Ivory bowls that bear no fruit, And the starlings and the jays- Birds that cannot even sing- Dare to come again in spring!

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Doubt no more that Oheron is listed on Textopian as a poem by Edna St. Vincent Millay, dated 1920 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Edna St. Vincent Millay
Date: 1920 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Fantasy, Nature Writing, Romanticism, Mythology
Length: 147 words
Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)

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Genres

Poetry — The work is a poem that employs lyrical language and explores themes of nature, mythology, and the passage of time.
Fantasy — The poem references mythical figures such as Oberon and Pan, indicating a connection to fantasy elements.
Nature Writing — The imagery of nature and the seasons suggests a focus on the natural world.
Romanticism — The themes of beauty, nature, and emotional expression align with Romantic literary ideals.