Indifference

Name: Indifference
Author: Edna St. Vincent Millay

The poem explores themes of love, longing, and emotional detachment. The speaker expresses a sense of waiting for love, which is portrayed as slow and hesitant. Despite the desire for connection, there is a strong reluctance to fully embrace it, as indicated by the speaker's decision to remain in bed, avoiding the vulnerability that comes with opening the door to love. The imagery of warmth and comfort contrasts with the coldness of indifference. The speaker's internal conflict is evident; while there is a yearning for love, there is also a fear of the emotional turmoil that may accompany it. The act of listening for love's arrival symbolizes hope, yet the speaker's tears suggest a deeper sadness and resignation to solitude. As the poem progresses, the speaker reflects on the nature of love and the pain of waiting. The juxtaposition of desire and reluctance creates a tension that underscores the complexity of human emotions. The speaker's cloak serves as a metaphor for protection, shielding them from the potential hurt that love may bring. Ultimately, the work delves into the paradox of wanting love while simultaneously resisting it. The speaker's experience encapsulates the struggle between the heart's desires and the mind's defenses, illustrating the intricate dance of human relationships and the often painful journey toward emotional connection.

By Edna St. Vincent Millay · First published 1921 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Modernism · 147 words

First lines

I said,-for Love was laggard, oh, Love was slow to come,- "I'll hear his step and know his step when I am warm in bed;

But I'll never leave my pillow, though there be some As would let him in-and take him in with tears! " I said.

I lay,-for Love was laggard, oh, he came not until dawn,- I lay and listened for his step and could not get to sleep;

And he found me at my window with my big cloak on, All sorry with the tears some folks might weep!

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Indifference is listed on Textopian as a poem by Edna St. Vincent Millay, dated 1921 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: 1921 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Romanticism, Modernism, Lyrical, Existentialism
Length: 147 words
Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)

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Genres

Poetry — The work is a poem that explores themes of love and emotional longing, characteristic of Millay's poetic style.
Romanticism — The poem reflects romantic themes, focusing on love's complexities and emotional depth.
Modernism — The poem's introspective nature and exploration of personal feelings align with modernist literary trends.
Lyrical — The poem expresses personal emotions and thoughts, typical of lyrical poetry.