A Lover Since Childhood

Name: A Lover Since Childhood
Author: Robert Graves

The narrative explores the complexities of love that has persisted since childhood, delving into themes of longing, nostalgia, and emotional turmoil. The speaker reflects on their feelings of isolation and despair, expressing a deep yearning for connection with a beloved who has become distant. The imagery of nature, such as bees and butterflies, symbolizes the innocence and simplicity of early affection, contrasting with the current emotional struggle. The speaker grapples with their inability to articulate their feelings, leading to a sense of frustration and vulnerability. They reminisce about a time when love was uncomplicated and mutual, highlighting the pain of unreciprocated emotions. The plea for reconciliation underscores the desire to return to a state of harmony, urging the beloved to set aside pride and rekindle their bond. Throughout the work, the tension between past and present is palpable, as the speaker navigates the bittersweet memories of their shared history. The emotional landscape is rich with imagery that evokes both beauty and sorrow, capturing the essence of a love that has endured yet transformed over time. The longing for acknowledgment and understanding remains a central theme, as the speaker seeks solace in the hope of rekindling their connection. Ultimately, the work encapsulates the struggle between the innocence of childhood love and the complexities of adult emotions, portraying a poignant journey of yearning and the desire for reconciliation. The speaker's vulnerability and sincerity resonate throughout, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences of love and loss.

By Robert Graves · First published 1946 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Lyric · 178 words

First lines

Tangled in thought am I, Stumble in speech do I? Do I blunder and blush for the reason why? Wander aloof do I, Lean over gates and sigh, Making friends with the bee and the butterfly?

If thus and thus I do, Dazed by the thought of you, Walking my sorrowful way in the early dew, My heart cut through and through In this despair for you, Starved for a word or a look will my hope renew;

Give then a thought for me Walking so miserably, Wanting relief in the friendship of flower or tree; Do but remember, we Once could in love agree, Swallow your pride, let us be as we used to be.

What this Textopian page supports

A Lover Since Childhood is listed on Textopian as a poem by Robert Graves, dated 1946 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Poem
Author: Robert Graves
Date: 1946 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Romance, Lyric, Literary Fiction, Coming-of-Age
Length: 178 words
Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for A Lover Since Childhood by Robert Graves
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
Readability and classroom-planning context
Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph

Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering A Lover Since Childhood?
How does this poem by Robert Graves fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
Romance — The central theme revolves around love and longing, characteristic of romantic literature.
Lyric — The expression of personal emotions and feelings aligns with the lyric genre.
Literary Fiction — The work explores complex themes and character emotions, typical of literary fiction.