“Half the night I waste in sighs,Half in dreams I sorrow afterThe delight of early skies;In a wakeful dose I sorrowFor the hand, the lips, the eyes,For the meeting of the morrow,The delight of happy laughter,The delight of low replies.”
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Analysis of "Half the night I waste in sighs"
In this poem by Alfred Tennyson, the speaker expresses a sense of longing and sorrow that consumes them throughout the night. The repetition of "Half in dreams I sorrow after" and "I sorrow" emphasizes the depth of the speaker's emotions and the overwhelming nature of their longing. The vivid imagery of "the hand, the lips, the eyes" and "the delight of happy laughter, the delight of low replies" conveys the speaker's yearning for human connection and intimacy. Tennyson effectively captures the bittersweet experience of yearning for something that feels out of reach, creating a poignant reflection on the nature of longing and desire.
Reflection on Longing and Regret
Alfred Tennyson's verse captures the universal experience of longing for past happiness and regretting missed opportunities. In a modern context, these feelings can still resonate as individuals navigate relationships, career choices, and personal ambitions. Tennyson's words serve as a reminder to cherish the present moment and appreciate the joy that can be found in everyday interactions.
Alfred Tennyson's Poem Exemplifying Yearning and Sorrow
In this excerpt from Alfred Tennyson's poem, the speaker expresses their deep longing and sorrow for the simple joys and connections in life. The repetition of the word "sorrow" highlights the melancholy and yearning felt by the speaker. The use of vivid imagery, such as "the hand, the lips, the eyes" and "the delight of happy laughter," further enhances the emotional depth of the poem.
Reflection Questions:
Reflecting on this poem by Alfred Tennyson, we can explore our own experiences of longing and loss. Consider the following questions:
- Have you ever experienced a sense of longing or sorrow similar to what the poet describes in the poem?
- How do memories of past joys and future hopes play a role in shaping your current emotions?
- Do you find yourself dwelling on the past or future, rather than fully embracing the present moment?
- How do you cope with feelings of longing and yearning for something or someone?
- What do you think the poet is trying to convey about the nature of human emotion and desire through this poem?
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