One Wants a Teller in a Time Like This
One Wants a Teller in a Time Like This - meaning Summary
Need for Honest Guidance
Brooks' poem captures a feeling of collective uncertainty and the desire for a truthful guide in unsettled times. Using the impersonal "one," the speaker collapses gender and individual certainty to show people overwhelmed by social and moral burdens. The poem rejects facile reassurances—religious platitudes, promises of patience, or sentimental triumphs—demanding instead an honest teller who can address confusion and the lack of a reliable home or path.
Read Complete AnalysesOne wants a teller in a time like this One's not a man, one's not a woman grown To bear enormous business all alone. One cannot walk this winding street with pride Straight-shouldered, tranquil-eyed, Knowing one knows for sure the way back home. One wonders if one has a home. One is not certain if or why or how. One wants a Teller now: Put on your rubbers and you won't catch a cold Here's hell, there's heaven. Go to Sunday School Be patient, time brings all good things--(and cool Stong balm to calm the burning at the brain?) Behold, Love's true, and triumphs; and God's actual.
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