Two Songs for a Child by Sara Teasdale

Name: Two Songs for a Child
Author: Sara Teasdale

The work consists of two distinct sections that explore themes of love, innocence, and the perception of the world through a child's eyes. In the first section, the speaker reflects on the concept of love as conveyed by a grandfather. The child is confused by the abstract nature of love, which is described as something intangible that cannot be physically grasped. The adults around the child suggest that love is kind, yet the child longs for something more concrete, expressing a preference for tangible items like cough drops over an abstract sentiment. This section highlights the child's desire for understanding and connection, juxtaposed with the adults' inability to communicate the essence of love in a way that resonates with the child's experience. The second section shifts focus to the moon, personifying it as a kind companion. The child perceives the moon as a guardian figure, accompanying them on their journey and providing comfort. The moon's presence is reassuring, and the child marvels at its ability to traverse the sky without physical means. This section emphasizes the child's imaginative interpretation of the world, where celestial bodies can be companions and protectors. The moon's kindness contrasts with the earlier confusion about love, suggesting a simpler, more direct form of affection that the child can comprehend. Overall, the work captures the innocence of childhood, the struggle to understand complex emotions, and the comfort found in simple, tangible experiences. The juxtaposition of abstract love and the concrete companionship of the moon illustrates the child's quest for connection and understanding in a world filled with both wonder and confusion.

By Sara Teasdale · First published 1918 · Genre: Children's Poetry, Lyric Poetry, Nature Poetry · 251 words

First lines

I. Grandfather's Love

They said he sent his love to me, / They wouldn't put it in my hand, / And when I asked them where it was / They said I couldn't understand.

I thought they must have hidden it, / I hunted for it all the day, / And when I told them so at night / They smiled and turned their heads away.

They say that love is something kind, / That I can never see or touch. / I wish he'd sent me something else, / I like his cough-drops twice as much.

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Two Songs for a Child is listed on Textopian as a poem by Sara Teasdale, dated 1918 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Sara Teasdale
Date: 1918 CE
Language: English
Genres: Children's Poetry, Lyric Poetry, Nature Poetry, Philosophical Poetry, Narrative Poetry
Length: 251 words
Structure: 1 section, 8 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

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Similar titles

Genres

Children's Poetry — The work is specifically written for children, using simple language and themes that resonate with a child's perspective.
Lyric Poetry — The poems express personal feelings and emotions, characteristic of lyric poetry.
Nature Poetry — The imagery of the moon and natural elements reflects a connection to nature, common in poetry.
Philosophical Poetry — The exploration of abstract concepts like love and understanding suggests philosophical themes.