Called by Olive Tilford Dargan
The work explores themes of existence, longing, and the interplay between reality and aspiration. It begins with a reflection on the transient nature of life, where the speaker acknowledges the allure of fame and love but ultimately seeks a deeper, more profound connection. The imagery evokes a journey through darkness and doubt, symbolizing the struggles faced in pursuit of one's desires. As the speaker traverses through metaphorical landscapes, they encounter moments of despair and isolation, represented by the absence of light and warmth. The arrival of a figure, embodying the speaker's lost potential, serves as a catalyst for introspection. This figure, adorned with stars, symbolizes the dreams and aspirations that have been abandoned or forgotten. The narrative culminates in a moment of vulnerability, where the speaker is exposed and stripped of pretense. The presence of a compassionate figure, who offers solace and understanding, highlights the importance of connection and empathy in overcoming life's challenges. The winds that cover the speaker signify a protective embrace, suggesting that even in moments of despair, there is hope and the possibility of renewal. Overall, the work delves into the complexities of the human experience, emphasizing the tension between aspiration and reality, and the transformative power of love and understanding in navigating life's uncertainties.
By Olive Tilford Dargan · First published 1932 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Philosophical · 370 words
First lines
I rise, I pass; The feast is on, bright is the board, Undrained the comrade glass; Love's sheltering eyes are deep and nigh; Fame waits with shining word; But sweeter, goldening the sphere, A voice falls from another sky; The wasting world I do not hear, And no god laughs as I pass by, A wanderer.
Unpausing lowers The gleam of her from other airs, And Being's guarded doors Are open wide for journey free Where wait my chosen stars; And o'er me, O what lustres break Of that desire, Reality, That burns a thousand suns to make One nightingale to sing for me, A soul awake!
What this Textopian page supports
Called is listed on Textopian as a poem by Olive Tilford Dargan, dated 1932 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Olive Tilford Dargan
- Date: 1932 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romanticism, Philosophical, Lyrical, Symbolism
- Length: 370 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Romanticism — Themes of love, nature, and individual experience are prevalent, characteristic of Romantic literature.
- Philosophical — Explores existential themes and the nature of reality and desire.
- Lyrical — The emotional expression and personal reflection align with lyrical poetry.
Tags
Feminist · Socialism · Labor Movement · Working Class · Poverty · Struggle · Empowerment · Suffrage · Equality · Justice · Activism · Protest