Illusion by Georgia Douglas Johnson
The poem explores themes of nostalgia, loss, and the harsh realities of adulthood. The speaker reflects on the innocence and protection of youth, symbolized by veils that shielded them from the painful truths of life. As they navigate the complexities of existence, they express a longing to return to a time when they were sheltered from sorrow and disillusionment. The imagery of veils suggests a desire for emotional protection, while the mention of a "desolate gaze" conveys a sense of helplessness and despair in confronting life's challenges. The repetition of the plea for the veils emphasizes the depth of the speaker's yearning for the simplicity and safety of their earlier years, highlighting the contrast between the idealism of youth and the starkness of adult reality. The poem ultimately captures the bittersweet nature of growing up, where knowledge and experience come at the cost of innocence and joy.
By Georgia Douglas Johnson · First published 1918 · Genre: Poetry, Lyric, Romanticism · 87 words
First lines
Oh! for the veils of my far-away youth, Shielding my heart from the blaze of the truth; Why did I stray from their foldings and grow Into the sadness that follows -- to know.
Impotent atom with desolate gaze Treading Life's treacherous, intricate maze --
Oh for the veils, for the veils of my youth Shielding my heart from the blaze of the truth!
What this Textopian page supports
Illusion is listed on Textopian as a poem by Georgia Douglas Johnson, 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: Georgia Douglas Johnson
- Date: 1918 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Lyric, Romanticism, Existentialism, Modernism
- Length: 87 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Similar titles
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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, characteristic of lyric poetry.
- Romanticism — Themes of nostalgia and emotional depth align with Romantic literary ideals.
- Existentialism — The exploration of truth and the human condition reflects existential themes.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · Symbolism · Imagery · Metaphor · Allegory · Feminist Themes · Racial Identity · Social Justice · Identity Crisis · Illusion vs Reality · Dreams and Nightmares