To Hold Secure

Name: To Hold Secure
Author: Edna St. Vincent Millay

The poem explores the tension between the purity of art and the pressures of contemporary expectations. The speaker grapples with the responsibility of preserving the integrity of artistic expression in a world that often prioritizes commercialism and accessibility over depth and craftsmanship. The speaker reflects on the challenge of maintaining a high standard in writing, contrasting the meticulous, refined approach of traditional poetry with the more straightforward, perhaps less nuanced, style that is becoming prevalent. There is a sense of urgency in the desire to protect the sanctity of art, symbolized by the "Temple" of creativity, which is under threat from those who prioritize immediate impact over artistic integrity. The invocation of the Muses signifies a longing for inspiration and guidance, suggesting that true artistry requires a connection to a deeper, more profound source of creativity. The speaker contemplates the implications of failing to uphold these standards, questioning the significance of individual contributions to the literary world if they do not adhere to the ideals of purity and craftsmanship. Ultimately, the poem serves as a meditation on the role of the artist in society, the responsibilities that come with the creative process, and the potential consequences of abandoning the pursuit of excellence in favor of popularity or ease. The speaker's resolve to confront these challenges underscores a commitment to preserving the essence of art, even in the face of adversity.

By Edna St. Vincent Millay · First published 1936 · Genre: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Philosophical · 134 words

First lines

To hold secure the province of Pure Art,-

What if the crude and weighty task were mine? -

For him who runs, cutting the pen less fine

Than formerly, and in the indignant heart

What this Textopian page supports

To Hold Secure is listed on Textopian as a poem by Edna St. Vincent Millay, dated 1936 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: 1936 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Philosophical, Modernist, Lyric
Length: 134 words
Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for To Hold Secure by Edna St. Vincent Millay
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
Readability and classroom-planning context
Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph

Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering To Hold Secure?
How does this poem by Edna St. Vincent Millay fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is a poem that explores themes of art, creativity, and the role of the poet.
Literary Fiction — The poem delves into complex themes and emotions, characteristic of literary fiction.
Philosophical — The poem raises questions about the nature of art and the responsibilities of the artist.
Modernist — The style and themes reflect modernist concerns with individual expression and the role of tradition.