Member-only story

Rediscovering the Enchanting World of "Renascence and Other Poems" by Edna St. Vincent Millay

Cole Powell

·4.5k Followers· Follow

Published in Renascence And Other Poems (Dover Thrift Editions: Poetry)

4 min read · 2 weeks before

536 View Claps

78 Respond

Save

Listen

Renascence And Other Poems By Edna St. Vincent Millay Renascence And Other Poems (Dover Thrift Editions: Poetry)

Edna St. Vincent Millay's "Renascence and Other Poems" is a timeless collection of lyrical and evocative verses that have captivated readers for generations. Originally published in 1917, the book catapulted Millay to literary stardom and cemented her place as one of the most celebrated poets of the 20th century.

Renascence and Other Poems (Dover Thrift Editions: Poetry)

by Edna St. Vincent Millay

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	523 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	52 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

A Journey into Nature and Self-Discovery

"Renascence and Other Poems" is a symphony of nature poetry, exploring the beauty, mystery, and interconnectedness of the natural world. Millay's poems evoke a sense of wonder and awe as she captures the vibrant colors, delicate textures, and intricate patterns of the flora and fauna that surround us.

In the title poem, "Renascence," the speaker embarks on a transformative journey through nature. She encounters the whispering of pines, the rushing of rivers, and the boundless expanse of the sky. As she immerses herself in this natural tapestry, she experiences a profound renewal and rebirth, symbolized by the birth of a new springtime:

All I could see from where I stood Was three long mountains and a wood; I turned and looked another way, And saw three islands in a bay.

So with my eyes I traced the line Of the horizon, thin and fine, Straight around till I was come To the neat blue curve of a dome.

Exploring Themes of Love and Loss

While nature serves as a central motif throughout the collection, Millay also delves into the complexities of human relationships. Her poems explore themes of love, loss, and the bittersweet nature of desire.

In "First Fig," the speaker reflects on the ephemeral nature of love and the pain of longing:

My candle burns at both ends; It will not last the night; But ah, my foes, and oh, my friends— It gives a lovely light!

In "Recuerdo," the speaker mourns the loss of a beloved companion, using poignant imagery to convey the depth of her grief:

We were very tired, we were very merry— We had gone back and forth all night on the ferry. It was bare and cold, and the lamps burned dimly— But we drank down love in a deep, deep goblet.

There was wine and wonderful talk and laughter, And music soft as mist, and shadows after. Far off, the city's lights gleamed through the night— And yet all this could be forgotten—quite, quite.

A Legacy of Poetic Excellence

"Renascence and Other Poems" showcases Millay's extraordinary poetic talents. Her vivid imagery, musical language, and deep emotional resonance have earned her a place among the most beloved poets of all time.

This Dover Thrift Editions edition of "Renascence and Other Poems" features a comprehensive selection of Millay's early work, including some of her most famous and enduring poems. It is an essential volume for poetry enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates the beauty of language and the power of imagination.

Edna St. Vincent Millay's "Renascence and Other Poems" is a timeless treasure that continues to inspire and enchant readers today. Its lyrical verses, poignant themes, and evocative imagery make it a must-read for anyone who seeks to explore the depths of nature, love, and the human experience.

Renascence and Other Poems (Dover Thrift Editions: Poetry)

by Edna St. Vincent Millay

4.3 out of 5