Sometimes by Edna St. Vincent Millay

Name: Sometimes
Author: Edna St. Vincent Millay

The poem explores themes of youth, wonder, and the beauty of solitude in nature. It captures a moment of early morning awakening, where the speaker reflects on the simplicity and joy of life. The imagery evokes a sense of adventure as the speaker embarks on a journey up a mountain, highlighting the contrast between the stillness of the sleeping town and the vibrant experience of being alone in nature. The speaker's actions—dressing in the dark, running through the town, and climbing the mountain—illustrate a carefree spirit and a connection to the natural world. The sensory details, such as the smell of bark and dew, enhance the experience, emphasizing the beauty found in the mundane. The act of witnessing the sunrise symbolizes renewal and the promise of new beginnings. Overall, the work conveys a deep appreciation for fleeting moments of beauty and the exhilaration of youth, suggesting that such experiences are both transformative and essential to the human experience. The poem invites readers to reflect on their own encounters with nature and the profound impact of solitude and wonder.

By Edna St. Vincent Millay · First published 1923 · Genre: Poetry, Lyric, Nature · 219 words

First lines

Sometimes, oh, often, indeed, in the midst of ugly adver beautiful

Memories return. You awake in wonder, you awake at half-past four, Wondering what wonder is in store. You reach for your clothes in the dark and pull them on, have no time

Even to wash your face, you have to climb Megunticook.

You run through the sleeping town; you do not arouse

What this Textopian page supports

Sometimes is listed on Textopian as a poem by Edna St. Vincent Millay, dated 1923 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: 1923 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Lyric, Nature, Romanticism, Modernism
Length: 219 words
Structure: 1 section, 9 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
Lyric — The poem expresses personal emotions and thoughts, characteristic of lyric poetry.
Nature — The themes revolve around nature, exploration, and the beauty of the natural world.
Romanticism — The emphasis on individual experience and emotional depth aligns with Romantic ideals.