There was a Time by Edward Thomas
The poem reflects on the passage of time and the loss of youth and vitality. The speaker reminisces about a time when they felt whole and carefree, contrasting it with their current state of weakness and aging. They acknowledge moments of joy but struggle to embrace them fully, feeling that their reality does not match their aspirations. The speaker grapples with the concept of pity, having once sought it but ultimately finding it burdensome. As they confront their present limitations, they express a desire to reclaim their former strength and purpose. The speaker's internal conflict centers on the tension between their past ideals and current realities. They reject the notion of being unworthy of the rewards that come from sacrifice, suggesting a longing for significance and a meaningful contribution despite their physical decline. The work encapsulates themes of nostalgia, the inevitability of aging, and the quest for identity and purpose in the face of mortality.
By Edward Thomas · First published 1918 · Genre: Poetry, Lyric, Philosophical · 166 words
First lines
There was a time when this poor frame was whole And I had youth and never another care, Or none that should have troubled a strong soul.
Yet, except sometimes in a frosty air When my heels hammered out a melody From pavements of a city left behind, I never would acknowledge my own glee Because it was less mighty than my mind Had dreamed of. Since I could not boast of strength Great as I wished, weakness was all my boast.
I sought yet hated pity till at length I earned it. Oh, too heavy was the cost.
What this Textopian page supports
There was a Time is listed on Textopian as a poem by Edward Thomas, dated 1918 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: 1918 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Lyric, Philosophical, Romanticism, Modernism
- Length: 166 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Lyric — The poem expresses personal emotions and reflections on youth, strength, and loss.
- Philosophical — Themes of existence, worth, and the passage of time are explored, prompting deep contemplation.
- Romanticism — The focus on individual experience and emotional depth aligns with Romantic ideals.
Tags
Poetry · Nature · War · Loss · Grief · Memory · Nostalgia · Imagery · Symbolism · Realism · Romanticism · Autobiographical