Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Richard Aldington's "Images of Desire" is a poem that reflects on the nature of desire and the power of images to evoke strong emotions. The poem is written in free verse, with no set rhyme scheme or meter, which allows the poet to explore the subject matter in a more open and fluid way. Throughout the poem, Aldington uses vivid and sensual imagery to convey the intensity of desire and the ways in which it can consume us.

The poem opens with the speaker describing a beautiful woman who walks past him on the street, causing him to feel a sudden rush of desire. The woman's physical appearance is described in detail, with her "lithe body," "soft hair," and "long, tawny eyes." The speaker is immediately captivated by her beauty and feels a sense of longing to possess her.

As the poem progresses, the speaker reflects on the nature of desire itself, and how it can be both intoxicating and destructive. He acknowledges that desire can lead us down a dangerous path, causing us to lose sight of reason and act impulsively. The speaker also suggests that desire is a natural and necessary part of the human experience, and that it can be a source of great joy and fulfillment.

Throughout the poem, Aldington uses a variety of poetic devices to convey the intensity of desire and the power of images. He employs rich, sensory language, such as the "burning scent of jasmine" and the "rich, dark earth" to evoke the sensuality of desire. He also uses repetition and enjambment to create a sense of urgency and momentum, as the speaker's desire builds and intensifies.

In the final stanza of the poem, the speaker acknowledges that his desire may never be fully satisfied, and that he may always be chasing after an elusive image of beauty and perfection. However, he also suggests that the pursuit of desire can be a worthwhile and fulfilling endeavor, even if it is ultimately unattainable. The poem ends on a note of resignation and acceptance, with the speaker acknowledging that he is "forever chasing shadows," but that he will continue to do so, driven by the power of desire and the allure of beauty.

Overall, "Images of Desire" is a powerful and evocative poem that explores the complex nature of human desire and the ways in which it can both enrich and consume us.

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