Restraint by Madison Cawein (1902)
The poem explores themes of desire, restraint, and the tension between passion and self-control. The speaker expresses deep affection for a beloved, reveling in the joy of their presence and the beauty of their connection. The imagery of firelight symbolizes warmth and intimacy, while the beloved's eyes are likened to windows revealing the richness of their inner world. As the speaker contemplates the intensity of their feelings, they acknowledge the potential dangers of surrendering completely to passion. The metaphor of the moon suggests a powerful, uncontrollable force that influences the speaker's emotions. The speaker is acutely aware of the ecstasy that the beloved's touch and gaze can evoke, yet they also recognize the peril of losing themselves in that overwhelming desire. The poem captures a moment of blissful connection, juxtaposed with an underlying fear of the consequences of unrestrained love. The speaker's longing is tempered by a desire to maintain control, highlighting the complexity of human emotions and relationships. Ultimately, the work reflects on the delicate balance between love's intoxicating allure and the necessity of restraint to preserve one's sense of self.
By Madison Cawein · First published 1902 · Genre: Romantic Poetry, Lyric Poetry, Imagery · 177 words
First lines
Dear heart and love! what happiness to sit And watch the firelight's varying shade and shine On thy young face; and through those eyes of thine -- As through glad windows -- mark fair fancies flit In sumptuous chambers of thy soul's chaste wit Like graceful women: then to take in mine Thy hand, whose pressure brims my heart's divine Hushed rapture as with music exquisite! When I remember how thy look and touch Sway, like the moon, my blood with ecstasy, I dare not think to what fierce heaven might lead Thy soft embrace; or in thy kiss how much Sweet hell, -- beyond all help of me, -- might be, Where I were lost, where I were lost indeed!
What this Textopian page supports
Restraint 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: Romantic Poetry, Lyric Poetry, Imagery, Symbolism, Classic Literature
- Length: 177 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Genres
- Romantic Poetry — The poem expresses deep emotional and romantic feelings, focusing on love and desire.
- Lyric Poetry — The personal and emotional nature of the poem aligns with the characteristics of lyric poetry.
- Imagery — The vivid descriptions and sensory details create strong visual and emotional imagery.
- Symbolism — The use of symbols, such as firelight and the moon, conveys deeper meanings related to love and ecstasy.
Tags
Poetry · Nature · Emotion · Mortality · Loss · Grief · Longing · Restraint · Self-control · Passion · Desire · Frailty