A Kind of Love, Some Say
A Kind of Love, Some Say - meaning Summary
When Love Equals Pain
The poem confronts the violent confusion between love and abuse. It describes physical injury—bruised ribs and swollen lids—not as passion but as evidence of harm, and argues that hate and sadism blur moral boundaries. Angelou suggests some people mistake possession or cruelty for love, portraying affection that "exacts a pain" as corrosive rather than tender. The tone is direct and accusatory about this dangerous misrecognition.
Read Complete AnalysesIs it true the ribs can tell The kick of a beast from a Lover's fist? The bruised Bones recorded well The sudden shock, the Hard impact. Then swollen lids, Sorry eyes, spoke not Of lost romance, but hurt. Hate often is confused. Its Limits are in zones beyond itself. And Sadists will not learn that Love, by nature, exacts a pain Unequalled on the rack.
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