Treasure by Georgia Douglas Johnson
The poem explores themes of love, memory, and the transient nature of experience. It begins with a reflection on the impermanence of love, acknowledging that even though love's dream may fade, there are moments of profound beauty that linger. The imagery of the "throbbing hour-glass" suggests the passage of time and the fleeting nature of life and love. The speaker expresses a sense of gratitude for having experienced a moment of deep connection, symbolized by the "golden-throated moment" that brings a sense of fulfillment and joy. This moment is likened to incense, suggesting a sacred or elevated quality that enriches the speaker's existence. As the poem progresses, the speaker contemplates the impact of love on their perception of the world. The "purple gleam" represents a heightened awareness or enlightenment that love provides, illuminating the path ahead. Despite the uncertainty of the future, the speaker feels reassured by the lingering effects of love, described as an "afterglow" that continues to encircle them. Ultimately, the work conveys a sense of resilience in the face of love's impermanence, emphasizing that the beauty of love, even when it fades, leaves an indelible mark on the soul. The speaker acknowledges the duality of love's joy and sorrow, recognizing that the memories created are treasures that enrich their life, providing light and warmth even in the absence of the original experience.
By Georgia Douglas Johnson · First published 1912 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Lyric · 71 words
First lines
What matters though love's dream shall pass, Since from the throbbing hour-glass One golden-throated moment prest Its attared incense to my breast.
Since I have known the purple gleam That lifts above me -- can I deem The way unlighted -- when I go Encircled by love's afterglow?
What this Textopian page supports
Treasure is listed on Textopian as a poem by Georgia Douglas Johnson, dated 1912 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: 1912 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romanticism, Lyric, Symbolism, Modernism
- Length: 71 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse and employs poetic devices, focusing on themes of love and fleeting moments.
- Romanticism — The themes of love, beauty, and emotional depth align with the characteristics of Romantic literature.
- Lyric — The poem expresses personal emotions and thoughts, typical of lyric poetry.
- Symbolism — The use of imagery and metaphor, such as 'golden-throated moment' and 'purple gleam', reflects symbolic elements.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · Symbolism · Imagery · Metaphor · Allegory · Feminist Themes · Racial Identity · Social Justice · Love · Loss · Memory