A Paradox by Georgia Douglas Johnson
The poem explores the complexities of love and emotional vulnerability. The speaker acknowledges a deep affection that is met with a cold, unresponsive demeanor from the beloved. This creates a paradox where the speaker feels a strong desire for intimacy and warmth, yet recognizes that the beloved prefers emotional distance. The imagery of "pyramids of old" symbolizes permanence and rigidity, contrasting with the speaker's frailty and emotional turmoil. The speaker expresses a longing to shed their protective facade, revealing their true self and seeking refuge in the beloved's embrace. However, the realization that the beloved's love is conditional—favoring a detached, cold affection—leaves the speaker in a state of conflict. The poem captures the tension between the desire for closeness and the reality of emotional barriers, highlighting the struggle between vulnerability and the fear of rejection. The speaker's yearning for connection is met with the painful acknowledgment that their love is not reciprocated in the way they desire, leading to a sense of isolation and longing. The work ultimately reflects on the nature of love, the complexities of human relationships, and the paradox of wanting what one cannot have.
By Georgia Douglas Johnson · First published 1917 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Symbolism · 112 words
First lines
I know you love me better cold Strange as the pyramids of old Responselessly.
But I am frail, and spent and weak With surging torrents that bespeak A living fire.
So, like a veil, my poor disguise Is draped to save me from your eyes'
Deep challenges.
What this Textopian page supports
A Paradox is listed on Textopian as a poem by Georgia Douglas Johnson, 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: Georgia Douglas Johnson
- Date: 1917 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romanticism, Symbolism, Modernism, Lyrical
- Length: 112 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Romanticism — Themes of love, longing, and emotional depth are central to the poem.
- Symbolism — The use of symbols, such as 'pyramids' and 'veil', conveys deeper meanings.
- Modernism — The poem reflects modernist themes of complexity in human emotions and relationships.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · Symbolism · Imagery · Metaphor · Allegory · Feminist Themes · Racial Identity · Social Justice · Critique of Society · Existential Crisis · Philosophical Inquiry