Pastoral by Edna St. Vincent Millay

Name: Pastoral
Author: Edna St. Vincent Millay

The poem presents a serene and idyllic rural landscape, evoking a sense of tranquility and nostalgia. It begins with a longing for stillness, contrasting the peacefulness of nature with the distant sounds of farm life, such as a rooster's crow and the bell of a cow. These elements create a vivid auditory backdrop that enhances the imagery of the pastoral setting. The speaker reflects on the simplicity and beauty of the countryside, where nature thrives in its unrefined state. The mention of wizened apples falling from an old tree suggests the passage of time and the cycle of life, while the grey hill and stony pasture symbolize the enduring presence of the natural world. The grazing herd and the sturdy mullein represent the harmony between animals and plants, emphasizing the interconnectedness of life in this tranquil environment. As the poem progresses, the speaker's appreciation for the landscape deepens, revealing a yearning for a return to this peaceful existence. The imagery of the purple blossom and spiky weed highlights the richness of the natural world, celebrating its imperfections and resilience. The overall tone is one of reverence for the simplicity and beauty found in rural life, inviting readers to reflect on their own connections to nature and the passage of time. The work encapsulates themes of nostalgia, the beauty of nature, and the desire for stillness amidst the chaos of modern life. It serves as a reminder of the solace that can be found in the natural world, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the landscapes that shape our experiences.

By Edna St. Vincent Millay · First published 1927 · Genre: Lyric Poetry, Pastoral Poetry, Nature Poetry · 119 words

First lines

If it were only still! - With far away the shrill Crying of a cock;

Or the shaken bell From a cow's throat

Moving through the bushes;

Or the soft shock Of wizened apples falling

What this Textopian page supports

Pastoral is listed on Textopian as a poem by Edna St. Vincent Millay, dated 1927 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: 1927 CE
Language: English
Genres: Lyric Poetry, Pastoral Poetry, Nature Poetry, Imagist Poetry, Modernist Poetry
Length: 119 words
Structure: 1 section, 9 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Lyric Poetry — The work is characterized by its emotional expression and personal reflection, typical of lyric poetry.
Pastoral Poetry — The poem's themes revolve around rural life and nature, embodying the pastoral tradition.
Nature Poetry — The vivid imagery of the natural landscape and its elements highlights the connection to nature.
Imagist Poetry — The focus on precise imagery and clear language aligns with the principles of Imagism.