His Argument by Olive Tilford Dargan
The work explores themes of love, desire, and the passage of time through the lens of nature's cycles. The speaker reflects on a past romance characterized by youthful innocence and joy, symbolized by the imagery of spring. This initial relationship is contrasted with a more complex attraction to another woman, who embodies a deeper, more mature allure. The speaker grapples with the tension between loyalty to the past and the pull of new emotions. As the narrative unfolds, the speaker acknowledges the inevitability of change, likening the transition from spring to autumn to the evolution of love. The autumnal imagery suggests a maturation of feelings, where the speaker seeks to reconcile his affections for both women. The poem captures the bittersweet nature of love, where memories of youthful passion coexist with the deeper, more profound connections that come with age. The speaker's internal conflict is palpable as he navigates his desires, ultimately expressing a wish to embrace both experiences. The act of giving a ring symbolizes commitment and the intertwining of past and present loves. The work culminates in a recognition that love is not static; it evolves, reflecting the seasons of life. The speaker's journey illustrates the complexity of human emotions and the enduring nature of love, regardless of its form.
By Olive Tilford Dargan · First published 1921 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Lyric · 184 words
First lines
One time I wooed a maid (dear is she yet! ) All in the revel eye of young Love's moon. Content she made me, -- ah, my dimpling mate, My Springtime girl, who walked with flower-shoon! But near me, nearer, steals a deep-eyed maid With creeping glance that sees and will not see, And blush that would those yea-sweet eyes upbraid, -- O, might I woo her nor inconstant be! But is not Autumn dreamtime of the Spring? (Yon scarlet fruit-bell is a flower asleep; ) And I am not forsworn if yet I keep Dream-faith with Spring in Autumn's deeper kiss. Then so, brown maiden, take this true-love ring, And lay thy long, soft locks where my heart is.
What this Textopian page supports
His Argument is listed on Textopian as a poem by Olive Tilford Dargan, 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: Olive Tilford Dargan
- Date: 1921 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romance, Lyric, Nature, Symbolism
- Length: 184 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Romance — The themes revolve around love, attraction, and emotional connections between characters.
- Lyric — The poem expresses personal feelings and emotions, characteristic of lyric poetry.
- Nature — Nature imagery is prevalent, reflecting the seasons and their symbolic meanings.
Tags
Feminist Literature · American Novel · Social Commentary · Marriage Drama · Family Conflict · Domestic Fiction · Realism · Psychological Insight · Character Study · Coming of Age · Self-Discovery · Identity Crisis