Not Honey by Hilda Doolittle (1921)
The novel revolves around a young woman's journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening. It explores themes of identity, morality, and the search for meaning in life. The protagonist navigates her relationships with others while grappling with her own desires and values. Through her experiences, she undergoes significant personal growth and transformation.
By Hilda Doolittle · First published 1921 · Genre: Poetry, Modernist, Imagism · 351 words
First lines
Not honey, not the plunder of the bee from meadow or sand-flower or mountain bush; from winter-flower or shoot born of the later heat: not honey, not the sweet stain on the lips and teeth: not honey, not the deep plunge of soft belly and the clinging of the gold-edged pollen-dusted feet.
Not so -- though rapture blind my eyes, and hunger crisp dark and inert my mouth, not honey, not the south, not the tall stalk of red twin-lilies, nor light branch of fruit tree caught in flexible light branch.
What this Textopian page supports
Not Honey is listed on Textopian as a poem by Hilda Doolittle, dated 1921 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Hilda Doolittle
- Date: 1921 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Modernist, Imagism, Symbolism, Lyric
- Length: 351 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Not Honey by Hilda Doolittle
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Not Honey?
- How does this poem by Hilda Doolittle fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing poetic devices such as imagery, metaphor, and rhythm.
- Modernist — The themes and style reflect modernist characteristics, including a focus on introspection and a break from traditional forms.
- Imagism — The vivid imagery and precise language align with the principles of the Imagist movement.
- Symbolism — The use of symbols, such as flowers and honey, conveys deeper meanings and emotions.
Tags
Poetry · Modernism · Symbolism · Nature Imagery · Imagist Movement · Free Verse · Stream-of-Consciousness · Experimentation · Language Play · Sensuality · Eroticism · Femininity