Absent Place an April Day

Absent Place an April Day - meaning Summary

Spring Longing, Inward Obstruction

This short poem frames spring blossoms as both invitation and reminder of absence. Daffodils appear outwardly cheerful while the speaker registers a homesick curiosity toward "souls that snow," suggesting people or feelings remote and cold. Imagery of drift and snow introduces an inward blockage that is "deeper than without," so external delight does not fully penetrate inner life. The poem ends noting that the flower’s pleasure is mirrored for a particular other, implying sympathy or displaced joy. Overall it explores the gap between seasonal brightness and unassuaged longing.