The Nearest Dream Recedes, Unrealized.
The Nearest Dream Recedes, Unrealized. - meaning Summary
Desire Pursued, Never Attained
The poem compares an elusive aspiration to a bee that tempts but never yields its best honey. The speaker watches from a human perspective — represented by a boy — as desire draws near, distracts, and then departs toward loftier aims. The tone mixes wistfulness and rueful acceptance. Ultimately the poem registers the ache of being close to fulfillment yet deprived of the rare reward that remains beyond reach.
Read Complete AnalysesThe nearest dream recedes, unrealized. The heaven we chase Like the June bee Before the school-boy Invites the race; Stoops to an easy clover Dips–evades–teases–deploys; Then to the royal clouds Lifts his light pinnace Heedless of the boy Staring, bewildered, at the mocking sky. Homesick for steadfast honey, Ah! the bee flies not That brews that rare variety.
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