Investigating the Poetic Mind of Edna St. Vincent Millay

Edna St. Vincent Millay (1892-1950) was an influential and prolific American poet of the first half of the 20th century. Among the many poems attributed to her, one that captures the essence of her poetry and the emotions of her time is a specific piece. In this article, we will explore the poem 'Love if I weep it will not matter,' delving into its meaning and the life of the poet behind it.

Who wrote the poem?

The poet who penned the poignant and introspective "Love if I weep it will not matter" is Edna St. Vincent Millay. Known for her exploration of love, nature, and women’s issues, Millay was a significant voice in American poetry of her era. Her talent and the depth of her emotional expression are evident in the verses she wrote.

The Poem: "Love if I weep it will not matter"

Love if I weep it will not matter
And if you laugh I shall not care
Foolish am I to think about it
But it is good to feel you there.

Love in my sleep I dreamed of waking —
White and awful the moonlight reached
Over the floor and somewhere somewhere
There was a shutter loose —it screeched!
Swung in the wind — and no wind blowing! —
I was afraid and turned to you
Put out my hand to you for comfort —
And you were gone! Cold cold as dew
Under my hand the moonlight lay!
Love if you laugh I shall not care
But if I weep it will not matter —
Ah it is good to feel you there!

The Poetic Vision of Edna St. Vincent Millay

Edna St. Vincent Millay is renowned for her direct and passionate approach to poetry. She often wrote about the complexities of human emotions, especially in the context of love and relationships. Her poetry often reflects a deep introspection and a sense of longing, both for human connection and the beauty of nature.

In "Love if I weep it will not matter," Millay’s tone suggests a balance between emotional vulnerability and acceptance. She acknowledges the pain of lost moments but finds solace in the physical presence of the loved one. The poem is a testament to her ability to convey self-reflection and the internal dialogue that arises during moments of emotional turbulence.

Themes and Influence

The poem delves into several critical themes:

Love and Loss: The poem captures the bittersweet nature of love. Millay reflects on the impact of laughing and weeping, embodying the complexity of emotional responses in relation to love. Intimacy and Connection: The physical and emotional closeness of being with a loved one is highlighted. The line "But it is good to feel you there!" emphasizes the comfort found in the presence of another. Imagery and Sensory Details: Millay uses vivid imagery to create a sense of place and mood. The recording of the shutter's sound "screeched" evokes a feeling of unease, which is contrasted with the tranquility of moonlight.

The influence of such a poem extends beyond its immediate context. Millay’s work is often celebrated for its simplicity and directness, making her poetry accessible and relatable to a wide audience.

Context of 20th Century American Poetry

Edna St. Vincent Millay’s poetry belongs to a rich tapestry of 20th-century American literature. Her work is closely associated with modernist poetry, which sought to break away from traditional poetic forms and embrace a more personal and free-flowing style. Millay’s early recognition and acclaim, including the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1923, solidified her position as a leading voice of the era.

Her poems often reflect the social issues and personal struggles of her time. "Love if I weep it will not matter" is a prime example of Millay’s profound emotional and intellectual engagement with the issues of love and loss, themes that remain universally relevant.

Conclusion

Through the poem "Love if I weep it will not matter," Edna St. Vincent Millay showcases her mastery of eloquent and accessible poetic expression. Her work, including this verse, has left a lasting impact on American literature and continues to resonate with readers today. The poem’s reflection on love, loss, and the comfort found in human connection serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring themes of poetry.

For those interested in learning more about Edna St. Vincent Millay and her contributions to poetry, exploring other works such as "Renascence," "Sonnet XLIII," and "The Ballad of the Harp-Weaver" can provide deeper insights into the poetic mind and heart of this influential American poet.