Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Charlotte Mew's poem "Forest Road" was first published in her collection of poetry, The Farmer's Bride, in 1914. While traditionally interpreted as a lesbian love poem, there is evidence to suggest that it may instead be about Mew's older sister, Freda, who was admitted to a mental institution in 1899.

The speaker describes a forest road that stretches endlessly before them, surrounded by walls of black trees. They feel a shadow that sings and calls, but not for them. The speaker then turns their attention to their companion, who is asleep, and expresses a desire to comfort them and ease their fear. The speaker expresses a wish that God would take away their own hands, which seem to have caused harm, and then describes the beauty of their companion's hair, which they want to keep and preserve.

The poem takes a darker turn as the speaker considers death and the inevitability of loss. They describe the power of death to strip away everything but the beauty of their companion's hair, which they wish to keep with them always. The poem ends with the speaker hearing a calling from their soul, suggesting a desire for a deeper spiritual connection and a search for meaning and purpose in life.

Throughout Mew's work, the heart is a recurring symbol loaded with meaning. It is described in various ways, from being an organ with physical functions to an architect and receiver of emotions. In "The Forest Road," the speaker is moved to strike and tear out their heart after experiencing loss. This desire to discard the heart is unique to this poem and suggests a deep sense of grief and despair.

Mew's use of vivid imagery and emotive language effectively conveys the theme of loss and transience in "Forest Road." While the interpretation of the poem may vary, its universal themes of love and loss continue to resonate with readers today.

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