Silence by Sara Teasdale (1939)
The poem explores the profound yearning for silence and solitude, emphasizing the deep emotional and spiritual connection that such stillness provides. It begins with a longing for a tranquil environment, free from the chaos of everyday life. The imagery evokes serene landscapes, such as deserts and calm seas, symbolizing peace and introspection. The speaker addresses a woman, acknowledging her ability to understand and express this desire for quietude through her art. This connection highlights the transformative power of silence, suggesting that it allows individuals to transcend worldly concerns and access a deeper, almost spiritual realm. The poem suggests that in silence, one can find freedom and a sense of unity with the infinite. Throughout the work, the contrast between the noise of the world and the beauty of silence is emphasized. The speaker reflects on how silence can reveal hidden truths and provide solace, serving as a refuge from the stresses of life. The poem ultimately celebrates the idea that silence is not merely the absence of sound but a rich, meaningful experience that nurtures the soul.
By Sara Teasdale · First published 1939 · Genre: Poetry, Lyric, Romanticism · 164 words
First lines
(To Eleonora Duse)
We are anhungered after solitude, Deep stillness pure of any speech or sound, Soft quiet hovering over pools profound, The silences that on the desert brood, Above a windless hush of empty seas, The broad unfurling banners of the dawn, A faery forest where there sleeps a Faun; Our souls are fain of solitudes like these. O woman who divined our weariness, And set the crown of silence on your art, From what undreamed-of depth within your heart Have you sent forth the hush that makes us free To hear an instant, high above earth's stress, The silent music of infinity?
What this Textopian page supports
Silence is listed on Textopian as a poem by Sara Teasdale, dated 1939 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Sara Teasdale
- Date: 1939 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Lyric, Romanticism, Symbolism, Modernism
- Length: 164 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is a poem that explores themes of solitude and silence through lyrical language.
- Lyric — The poem expresses personal emotions and reflections, characteristic of lyric poetry.
- Romanticism — The themes of nature, solitude, and emotional depth align with Romantic literary ideals.
- Symbolism — The use of imagery and metaphor to convey deeper meanings reflects Symbolist influences.
Tags
silence · solitude · stillness · nature · art · freedom · infinity · reflection · poetry · emotion · beauty · tranquility