Indifference by Madison Cawein
The poem explores themes of unrequited love and the beauty of nature intertwined with human emotion. The speaker expresses deep admiration for a woman whose presence brings life and joy to the natural world around her. Wildflowers and birds are personified, depicting their affection for her as they respond to her beauty and laughter. However, this admiration is tinged with sorrow, as the woman remains oblivious to the love expressed by the flora and fauna, as well as the speaker's own feelings. The juxtaposition of nature's vibrant response to her presence against her indifference highlights the pain of unreciprocated affection. The speaker laments the disconnect between the woman's beauty and the emotional responses it elicits, emphasizing a sense of longing and despair. The work ultimately reflects on the bittersweet nature of love, where beauty exists alongside emotional isolation.
By Madison Cawein · First published 1902 · Genre: Lyric Poetry, Romanticism, Nature Poetry · 114 words
First lines
She is so dear the wildflowers near Each path she passes by, Are over fain to kiss again Her feet and then to die.
She is so fair the wild birds there That sing upon the bough, Have learned the staff of her sweet laugh, And sing no other now.
Alas! that she should never see, Should never care to know, The wildflower's love, the bird's above, And his, who loves her so!
What this Textopian page supports
Indifference is listed on Textopian as a poem by Madison Cawein, dated 1902 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Madison Cawein
- Date: 1902 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Lyric Poetry, Romanticism, Nature Poetry, Elegy, Symbolism
- Length: 114 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Lyric Poetry — The poem expresses deep emotional sentiments and personal feelings, characteristic of lyric poetry.
- Romanticism — The themes of nature, beauty, and unrequited love align with Romantic ideals.
- Nature Poetry — The vivid imagery of wildflowers and birds emphasizes the connection to nature.
- Elegy — The tone reflects a sense of loss and longing, typical of elegiac poetry.
Tags
Poetry · Philosophy · Existentialism · Mortality · Human Condition · Indifference · Absurdity · Futility · Despair · Hopelessness · Melancholy · Sorrow