Modern Declaration

Name: Modern Declaration
Author: Edna St. Vincent Millay

The poem presents a declaration of unwavering love, emphasizing the speaker's steadfastness in their affections since childhood. The speaker asserts that despite societal pressures, cynicism, and personal struggles, their love remains constant and unyielding. They reject the notion of compromising their feelings for social acceptance or personal gain, highlighting a commitment that transcends external circumstances, including political and social upheavals. The speaker's love is portrayed as a fundamental truth, unaffected by the changing tides of power or the opinions of others. This declaration serves as a powerful affirmation of loyalty and devotion, suggesting that true love endures regardless of the challenges faced. The tone is assertive and resolute, reinforcing the idea that genuine emotions cannot be diminished by external factors. The poem's structure and language convey a sense of urgency and passion, with the speaker's declarations building in intensity. The use of vivid imagery and personal anecdotes enhances the emotional weight of the message, making it relatable and impactful. The speaker's refusal to waver in their affections serves as a testament to the strength of love, positioning it as a guiding force in their life. Overall, the work encapsulates the theme of enduring love, celebrating its resilience against the backdrop of a complex and often tumultuous world. The speaker's commitment is not just a personal sentiment but a universal declaration that resonates with anyone who has experienced the depth of true affection.

By Edna St. Vincent Millay · First published 1921 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Lyric · 137 words

First lines

I, having loved ever since I was a child a few things, never having wavered In these affections; never through shyness in the houses of the rich or in the presence of clergymen having denied these loves;

Never when worked upon by cynics like chiropractors having grunted or clicked a vertebra to the discredit of these loves;

Never when anxious to land a job having diminished them by a conniving smile; or when befuddled by drink Jeered at them through heartache or lazily fondled the fingers of their alert enemies; declare

That I shall love you always.

What this Textopian page supports

Modern Declaration is listed on Textopian as an essay 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: Essay
Author: Edna St. Vincent Millay
Date: 1921 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Romanticism, Lyric, Modernism, Confessional
Length: 137 words
Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Confusing

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Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is written in verse and employs poetic devices, focusing on themes of love and personal conviction.
Romanticism — The themes of enduring love and emotional expression align with the characteristics of Romantic literature.
Lyric — The personal and emotional nature of the declaration reflects the qualities of lyric poetry.
Modernism — The work's contemporary themes and style reflect modernist influences in literature.