After you Speak by Edward Thomas
The poem explores themes of communication, longing, and the complexities of love. It begins with a moment of connection between two individuals, where unspoken meanings and deeper emotions are conveyed through their gaze. The speaker reflects on the intensity of this connection, suggesting that there is a wisdom and darkness in the other person that transcends mere words. The imagery of the lark serves as a metaphor for the duality of existence—grounded yet yearning for flight. The lark's relationship with dust symbolizes the mundane aspects of life that are intertwined with the desire for something greater. This juxtaposition highlights the tension between earthly attachments and the aspiration for freedom. As the poem progresses, the speaker acknowledges the rawness of desire, equating lust with love. This acknowledgment complicates the emotional landscape, suggesting that what is often perceived as pure affection may also be rooted in physical longing. The interplay between love and lust raises questions about the nature of relationships and the motivations behind them. Overall, the work delves into the intricacies of human connection, the interplay of desire and emotion, and the search for meaning in intimate relationships. The language is rich with imagery and metaphor, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences of love and longing.
By Edward Thomas · First published 1917 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Lyric · 85 words
First lines
After you speak And what you meant Is plain, My eyes Meet yours that mean -- With your cheeks and hair -- Something more wise, More dark, And far different.
Even so the lark Loves dust And nestles in it The minute Before he must Soar in lone flight So far, Like a black star He seems -- A mote Of singing dust Afloat Above, That dreams And sheds no light.
I know your lust Is love.
What this Textopian page supports
After you Speak is listed on Textopian as a poem by Edward Thomas, dated 1917 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Edward Thomas
- Date: 1917 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romanticism, Lyric, Modernism, Nature Writing
- Length: 85 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs poetic devices, focusing on themes of love and communication.
- Romanticism — The themes of love, nature, and emotional depth align with the characteristics of Romantic literature.
- Lyric — The personal expression of emotions and thoughts indicates a lyrical quality.
- Modernism — The exploration of complex emotions and fragmented imagery reflects modernist tendencies.
Tags
Poetry · Nature · Philosophy · Existentialism · Mortality · Self-Discovery · Human Condition · Emotions · Thoughts · Reflections · Insights · Wisdom