Tell Me Why
Tell Me Why - meaning Summary
Jealous Memory Intruding Peace
The poem voices a speaker tormented by the persistent presence of a former lover’s shadow standing between them and their current relationship. It questions whether this apparition is real or a haunting memory of a happier past, then alternates curses whether the rival is dead or living. The closing lines condemn that intruding memory as a crude obstacle to the speaker’s peace, exposing jealousy and unresolved loss.
Read Complete AnalysesTell me why, behind thee, I see always the shadow of another lover? Is it real Or is this the thrice-damned memory of a better happiness? Plague on him if he be dead Plague on him if he be alive A swinish numbskull To intrude his shade Always between me and my peace.
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