When Man is Gone

Name: When Man is Gone
Author: Edna St. Vincent Millay

The poem explores the theme of humanity's transience in contrast to the permanence of the divine. It envisions a future where humans have vanished, leaving only gods to inhabit the world. The imagery of gods with golden attributes emphasizes their grandeur and immortality, while the depiction of humanity is marked by decay and loss. The "plain skull of Man" symbolizes the end of human existence, highlighting the fragility of life and intellect. The speaker reflects on the once-great achievements of humanity, particularly the capacity for thought and creativity, represented by the "human brain." The poem suggests that despite the advancements and knowledge accumulated by humans, their existence is ultimately fleeting. The "toothy gourd" metaphorically represents the human head, now devoid of life and thought, underscoring the emptiness left behind. The contrast between the divine and the mortal raises questions about the legacy of humanity. The gods, as eternal beings, stand in stark opposition to the ephemeral nature of human life. The poem invites contemplation on what remains of human achievement when the individual is gone, suggesting that the essence of humanity may be lost or forgotten in the grand scheme of existence. Overall, the work serves as a meditation on mortality, the passage of time, and the enduring nature of the divine compared to the transient nature of human life and intellect. It challenges readers to consider the significance of human contributions in a world that ultimately outlasts them.

By Edna St. Vincent Millay · First published 1933 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Lyric · 127 words

First lines

When Man is gone and only gods remain

To stride the world, their mighty bodies hung

With golden shields, and golden curls outflung

Above their childish foreheads; when the plain

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When Man is Gone is listed on Textopian as a poem by Edna St. Vincent Millay, dated 1933 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Edna St. Vincent Millay
Date: 1933 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Lyric, Nature, Symbolism
Length: 127 words
Structure: 1 section, 9 paragraphs
Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)

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Genres

Poetry — The work is a poem that explores themes of humanity, existence, and the contrast between man and gods.
Philosophical — The poem delves into existential questions about the human condition and the legacy of mankind.
Lyric — The writing style is personal and emotional, reflecting the speaker's thoughts and feelings about humanity.
Nature — Imagery of the beach and natural elements is used to convey deeper themes.