Sara Teasdale (8 August 1884 – 29 January 1933 / Missouri)

Oh You Are Coming

Oh you are coming, coming, coming, How will hungry Time put by the hours till then? -But why does it anger my heart to long so For one man out of the world of men?

Oh I would live in myself only And build my life lightly and still as a dream -

I think David is both right and wrong in his interpretation of her words 'world of men.' Yes, there are many men in it, although it is never easy for a woman to find the right one. I do not think she feels contempt for the 'world of men, ' but rather the frustration of women of her era, that they were so constrained where men were not. I appreciate hearing a male comment; most comments seem to be from women. I suspect that her poems are read primarily by women. And I agree with David that the emotions are powerful, and overwhelming to the poet, perhaps ruling her despite her rational mind.

the meter is a bit irregular but the emotions are very powerful. Teasdale is clearly troubled with emotions that overwhelm her against her better judgement. I can relate.

The 'world of men' is a clever twist as well. Implying that men rule the world but also that there are so many men it is easy for a woman to find one. Seemingly showing a degree of contempt for this 'world of men'.