I too Beneath your Moon

Name: I too Beneath your Moon
Author: Edna St. Vincent Millay

The poem explores themes of desire, identity, and the complexities of human experience. The speaker addresses a powerful force, personified as "almighty Sex," indicating a deep connection to primal instincts and emotions. The imagery of nightfall and the act of crying like a cat suggests a raw, instinctual nature that contrasts with societal expectations. The speaker reflects on their labor in constructing a metaphorical tower, symbolizing aspirations or achievements. This tower, while intended for beauty, is built from personal struggles, including anguish, pride, and lust. The speaker acknowledges the imperfections and realities of their existence, emphasizing that their contributions are rooted in genuine human experiences rather than idealized notions of nobility. The poem conveys a sense of defiance against societal norms, asserting the validity of personal desires and experiences. The speaker embraces their identity, recognizing that their complexities and flaws are integral to their being. The work ultimately champions authenticity and the acceptance of one's true self, regardless of societal judgments.

By Edna St. Vincent Millay · First published 1931 · Genre: Poetry, Feminist Literature, Romanticism · 143 words

First lines

I too beneath your moon, almighty Sex, Go forth at nightfall crying like a cat, Leaving the lofty tower I laboured at

For birds to foul and boys and girls to vex

With tittering chalk; and you, and the long necks

Of neighbours sitting where their mothers sat

What this Textopian page supports

I too Beneath your Moon is listed on Textopian as a poem by Edna St. Vincent Millay, dated 1931 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Poem
Author: Edna St. Vincent Millay
Date: 1931 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Feminist Literature, Romanticism, Modernism, Confessional Poetry
Length: 143 words
Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)

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Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is a poem that employs lyrical language and explores deep emotional themes.
Feminist Literature — The poem addresses themes of sexuality and identity, reflecting feminist perspectives on women's experiences.
Romanticism — The poem expresses intense emotions and personal experiences, characteristic of Romantic literature.
Modernism — The poem's structure and themes reflect modernist concerns with individuality and societal norms.