What Shall I Give? by Edward Thomas
The poem explores the speaker's contemplation of what to provide for his younger daughter. He reflects on the inadequacy of material wealth and possessions, suggesting that even the vastness of land or riches would not enhance her life or happiness. The speaker emphasizes the futility of giving her more than the essentials needed to survive, such as protection from cold and hunger. He contrasts the idea of wealth with the simplicity of nature and personal experience, indicating that true richness lies not in material abundance but in the appreciation of one's surroundings and the intrinsic value of life. The imagery of specific locations, like South Weald and Havering, serves to illustrate that even the most beautiful and expansive lands cannot equate to genuine fulfillment. The speaker expresses a desire to free his daughter from the burdens of wealth and expectations, suggesting that a simpler life, filled with personal growth and self-discovery, is more valuable. He acknowledges the inevitability of wanting and longing that comes with life, implying that these experiences shape one's character and understanding of the world. Ultimately, the poem conveys a message about the importance of emotional and spiritual wealth over material possessions, advocating for a life rich in personal experiences rather than one weighed down by the trappings of affluence. The speaker's reflections reveal a deep understanding of the complexities of life and the true essence of giving.
By Edward Thomas · First published 1917 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Nature Writing · 156 words
First lines
What shall I give my daughter the younger More than will keep her from cold and hunger?
I shall not give her anything.
If she shared South Weald and Havering, Their acres, the two brooks running between, Paine's Brook and Weald Brook, With pewit, woodpecker, swan, and rook, She would be no richer than the queen Who once on a time sat in Havering Bower Alone, with the shadows, pleasure and power.
She could do no more with Samarkand, Or the mountains of a mountain land And its far white house above cottages Like Venus above the Pleiades.
What this Textopian page supports
What Shall I Give? is listed on Textopian as a poem by Edward Thomas, dated 1917 CE.
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- Work type: Poem
- Author: Edward Thomas
- Date: 1917 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Nature Writing, Literary Fiction, Contemporary
- Length: 156 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Philosophical — The poem explores themes of value, existence, and the nature of giving.
- Nature Writing — It reflects on the natural world and its relationship to human experience.
- Literary Fiction — The work delves into complex emotional and existential themes, characteristic of literary fiction.
Tags
Poetry · Nature · Philosophy · Existentialism · Meditation · Self-Discovery · Spirituality · Literary Fiction · Symbolism · Imagery · Reflection · Insight