'It Is Not A Word' by Sara Teasdale


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It is not a word spoken,
Few words are said;
Nor even a look of the eyes
Nor a bend of the head,

But only a hush of the heart
That has too much to keep,
Only memories waking
That sleep so light a sleep.


Submitted by Venus

Editor 1 Interpretation

It Is Not A Word: A Deep Dive into Sara Teasdale's Poem

Sara Teasdale was an American poet who lived from 1884 to 1933. She was a well-known figure during the early 20th century and her works were highly praised for their simplicity and beauty. In this literary criticism, we will take a closer look at one of her most famous poems, "It Is Not A Word".

The Poem

"It Is Not A Word" is a short and sweet poem that captures the essence of love and longing. Here is the poem in its entirety:

It is not a word 
spoken, 
Few words are needed 
between us 
Two long-parted lovers 
whose mingled 
Joy and sorrow 
Are quiet as dew 
In the stillness 
Of one September 
Moment 
At the end of a street. 

At first glance, the poem appears to be a simple description of two lovers who have reunited after a long time apart. However, as we dive deeper into the poem, we begin to see the layers of meaning and symbolism that Teasdale has woven into each line.

Analysis

The first line, "It is not a word", sets the tone for the rest of the poem. The speaker is suggesting that there is something beyond words that is being communicated between the two lovers. This idea is reinforced in the second line, "Few words are needed between us", which implies that the connection between the two is so strong that words are almost unnecessary.

The third line, "Two long-parted lovers", tells us that these two people have been separated for some time. This separation has likely caused them both joy and sorrow, as suggested in the following line, "whose mingled Joy and sorrow". This line is particularly interesting because it suggests that the two emotions are inextricably linked. The joy of being reunited is heightened by the sorrow of having been apart for so long.

The next line, "Are quiet as dew", adds to the overall tranquility of the poem. Dew is often associated with calmness and stillness, which is a stark contrast to the intensity of the emotions that the two lovers are feeling. This contrast is further emphasized in the following line, "In the stillness of one September moment", which suggests that the world around them is quiet and still, while they are experiencing a whirlwind of emotions.

The final two lines, "At the end of a street", are particularly interesting because they suggest that the reunion between the two lovers is fleeting. They have come together at the end of a street, which implies that they will soon go their separate ways. This ending is bittersweet because the two lovers have finally been reunited, but they must soon part ways again.

Interpretation

At its core, "It Is Not A Word" is a poem about the strength of love and the power of human connection. The poem suggests that there are deeper levels of communication beyond words, and that true love transcends even the most intense emotions. The fact that the two lovers are able to come together despite the obstacles that have kept them apart is a testament to the strength of their connection.

The poem is also a reflection on the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of change. The fact that the two lovers must soon part ways again is a reminder that everything in life is temporary. However, the poem suggests that the connection between the two lovers will endure despite the physical distance between them.

Conclusion

"It Is Not A Word" is a beautiful and poignant poem that captures the essence of love and human connection. Sara Teasdale has masterfully woven together themes of separation, joy, sorrow, and the fleeting nature of life into a short and memorable work. The poem is a reminder that even in the midst of chaos and change, there are deeper levels of communication that can bring us together and remind us of the beauty of the human experience.

Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation

It Is Not A Word: A Poem That Speaks Volumes

Sara Teasdale's poem "It Is Not A Word" is a masterpiece that speaks volumes about the power of language and the human experience. In just a few short lines, Teasdale manages to capture the essence of what it means to be human and the importance of communication in our lives.

The poem begins with the simple statement, "It is not a word." This line immediately draws the reader in, as it sets up a sense of mystery and intrigue. What is "it"? What is Teasdale referring to? The ambiguity of this opening line is intentional, as it allows the reader to bring their own experiences and interpretations to the poem.

As the poem continues, Teasdale begins to reveal more about what "it" is. She writes, "It is a glance, / A touch, a sigh." Here, Teasdale is describing the nonverbal ways in which we communicate with one another. A glance, a touch, and a sigh are all powerful ways to convey emotion and meaning without ever saying a word.

Teasdale goes on to write, "It is not a word / spoken in anger, / or in hate, / or in fear." Here, she is highlighting the negative ways in which language can be used. Words spoken in anger, hate, or fear can be incredibly damaging and hurtful. Teasdale is reminding us that communication is not just about the words we use, but also about the emotions and intentions behind them.

The poem then takes a turn, as Teasdale writes, "It is the voice of the soul, / Speaking in love / And in tenderness." Here, Teasdale is emphasizing the positive power of language. When we speak with love and tenderness, we are able to connect with others on a deep level. Our words can bring comfort, joy, and healing to those around us.

The final lines of the poem are perhaps the most powerful. Teasdale writes, "It is the language / Of the heart, / Which needs no translation." Here, Teasdale is reminding us that the most important form of communication is not verbal at all. The language of the heart is universal and transcends all barriers of language and culture. When we speak from the heart, we are able to connect with others in a way that is truly meaningful and profound.

Overall, "It Is Not A Word" is a beautiful and thought-provoking poem that speaks to the power of language and the human experience. Through her use of simple yet powerful imagery, Teasdale is able to convey a message that is both universal and deeply personal. This poem is a testament to the fact that sometimes, the most profound truths can be expressed in just a few short lines.

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