Poem Analysis - I Like My Body When It Is With Your

A Celebration of Physical Intimacy

E.E. Cummings's "i like my body when it is with your" is an intensely sensual and joyous exploration of physical love and attraction. The poem revels in the experience of being with a lover, focusing on the tangible sensations and the sheer delight in the other person's body. The tone is celebratory, intimate, and playful, as the speaker catalogs the aspects of their lover's physicality that they adore. There is a sense of newness and discovery that permeates the poem, creating a feeling of freshness and excitement.

Sensory Overload and the Language of Touch

One of the central themes of the poem is the intense experience of physical connection. Cummings develops this theme through vivid imagery and a focus on sensory details. The poem is filled with descriptions of touch: "feel the spine of your body and its bones," "trembling-firm-smooth ness," "kissing this and that of you," "slowly stroking the, shocking fuzz." These descriptions emphasize the importance of physical contact in experiencing and expressing love. The fragmented syntax and unconventional capitalization contribute to the feeling of immediacy and spontaneity, as if the speaker is overwhelmed by the intensity of the moment.

The Power of the New

Another crucial theme is the sense of newness and discovery within the relationship. The phrase "quite new" appears twice, first describing the speaker's own body ("so quite new a thing") when it is with their lover's, and then later describing the lover ("under me you so quite new"). This repetition highlights the transformative power of love and intimacy. The relationship brings about a renewed sense of self and a constant process of discovery. Each encounter is fresh and exciting, as if they are continually exploring new facets of each other.

Love as Electric Energy

A recurring symbol in the poem is electricity. The phrase "electric fur" is a particularly striking image, suggesting a powerful, almost primal energy emanating from the lover's body. This image goes beyond mere physical description; it implies a deeper, more profound connection that is almost palpable. The lover isn't just physically appealing; they possess a vibrant and exciting energy that electrifies the speaker. The "shocking fuzz" adds a playful and titillating element to the experience, hinting at the excitement and intensity of their interactions.

Final Embraces

In conclusion, "i like my body when it is with your" is a passionate and celebratory ode to physical love. Through its vivid imagery, sensual language, and emphasis on newness, the poem creates a powerful and intimate portrait of a relationship defined by mutual attraction and a deep appreciation for the other's physicality. The poem's unconventional style and fragmented syntax contribute to its overall sense of immediacy and spontaneity, making it a truly unforgettable exploration of the joys of physical connection. The final image of "eyes big love-crumbs" further emphasizes the abundance and generosity of the love being expressed, like scattered remnants of something precious and fulfilling.