I Said, Seeing how the Winter Gale Increased

Name: I Said, Seeing how the Winter Gale Increased
Author: Edna St. Vincent Millay

The poem explores the tension between desire and the passage of time, set against the backdrop of winter. The speaker reflects on the increasing strength of both the winter gale and their own inner longing, suggesting a parallel between external and internal storms. The long nights of winter provide a space for intimacy and connection, yet the speaker acknowledges the inevitability of change as the season shifts. As the poem progresses, the speaker laments the fleeting nature of this winter intimacy, recognizing that the dark days are giving way to the light of longer days. This transition symbolizes a departure from the passionate moments shared, evoking feelings of loss and betrayal. The imagery of nature, such as the sparrow and flowers, contrasts with the harshness of winter, emphasizing the bittersweet nature of love and desire. Ultimately, the poem captures the struggle between the yearning for connection and the reality of time's relentless march, culminating in a poignant farewell to the season of intimacy. The speaker's emotional turmoil reflects a universal experience of love, longing, and the inevitable passage of time.

By Edna St. Vincent Millay · First published 1940 · Genre: Lyric Poetry, Romanticism, Nature Poetry · 153 words

First lines

I said, seeing how the winter gale increased, Even as waxed within us and grew strong

The ancient tempest of desire, "At least, It is the season when the nights are long.

Well flown, well shattered from the summer hedge

The early sparrow and the opening flowers! -Late climbs the sun above the southerly edge

What this Textopian page supports

I Said, Seeing how the Winter Gale Increased is listed on Textopian as a poem by Edna St. Vincent Millay, dated 1940 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Edna St. Vincent Millay
Date: 1940 CE
Language: English
Genres: Lyric Poetry, Romanticism, Nature Poetry, Modernism, Existentialism
Length: 153 words
Structure: 1 section, 8 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Lyric Poetry — The poem expresses personal emotions and thoughts, characteristic of lyric poetry.
Romanticism — Themes of desire and nature reflect the ideals of Romanticism.
Nature Poetry — The imagery of winter and seasonal change emphasizes the connection to nature.
Modernism — The poem's structure and exploration of complex emotions align with modernist themes.