This Was in the White of the Year
poem 995
This Was in the White of the Year - meaning Summary
Memory Folded in Seasons
The poem contrasts past and present seasons to explore memory and perception. Winter and spring images—drifts and daisies—stand for moments that were once hard to imagine but are now clear. The speaker argues that looking back is the most reliable stance, yet reflection and anticipation are intertwined: retrospection becomes half of prospect and sometimes outweighs it. The poem suggests memory shapes how the future is conceived.
Read Complete AnalysesThis was in the White of the Year That was in the Green Drifts were as difficult then to think As Daisies now to be seen Looking back is best that is left Or if it be before Retrospection is Prospect’s half, Sometimes, almost more.
Feel free to be first to leave comment.