The Broken Dike

Name: The Broken Dike
Author: Edna St. Vincent Millay

The poem depicts a catastrophic flood that devastates the landscape, symbolizing loss and destruction. The imagery of a broken dike and flooded fields conveys a sense of helplessness and despair. The speaker reflects on the aftermath, where the once-fertile ground is now treacherous and unrecognizable, filled with debris and remnants of life. Amidst this chaos, there is a poignant moment of contemplation about humanity's struggle against nature. The figure of a man is introduced, who, despite the overwhelming destruction, is seen in a moment of quiet resilience. He is portrayed as having worked hard, only to face the weight of his burdens, likened to a heavy quilt. This suggests a deep connection to the land and the toil that comes with it. As the sun sets, the man is depicted in a vulnerable state, navigating the remnants of his garden with a single oar. This imagery emphasizes his isolation and the fragility of his existence. The plough and weeds symbolize the remnants of his labor and the life that once thrived there. The act of sculling across his roof signifies a desperate attempt to reclaim what has been lost, while the pocket full of seeds represents hope and the potential for renewal. Overall, the work explores themes of loss, resilience, and the enduring human spirit in the face of overwhelming adversity. The juxtaposition of destruction and the desire for regeneration highlights the complex relationship between humanity and nature.

By Edna St. Vincent Millay · First published 1923 · Genre: Poetry, Nature Writing, Existentialism · 137 words

First lines

The broken dike, the levee washed away, The good fields flooded and the cattle drowned, Estranged and treacherous all the faithful ground, And nothing left but floating disarray

Of tree and home uprooted,-was this the day

Man dropped upon his shadow without a sound

And died, having laboured well and having found

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The Broken Dike is listed on Textopian as a poem by Edna St. Vincent Millay, dated 1923 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Edna St. Vincent Millay
Date: 1923 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Nature Writing, Existentialism, Romanticism, Symbolism
Length: 137 words
Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)

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Genres

Poetry — The work is a poem that employs lyrical language and explores themes of loss and nature.
Nature Writing — The poem vividly describes natural elements and their impact on human life, focusing on flooding and its consequences.
Existentialism — The themes reflect on human existence, struggle, and the weight of life's burdens.
Romanticism — The emotional depth and appreciation for nature align with Romantic literary ideals.