Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

This poem is titled "The Storm" by Theodore Roethke. It was first published in 1953 as part of Roethke's collection of poems called "The Waking."

"The Storm" is a haunting and atmospheric poem that captures the raw power of nature. The imagery is vivid and intense, with the stone breakwater and the small street-lamp acting as symbols of human fragility in the face of elemental forces. The ominous lapping of the waves, the whining wind, and the rattling leaves all contribute to the sense of unease and impending danger.

Roethke's use of sound and rhythm is particularly effective in this poem. The repetition of the "w" sound in "wind whines" and "whistling between" creates a sense of a continuous, unrelenting force. The short, staccato phrases like "a thin whine of wires" and "a rattling and flapping of leaves" contribute to the sense of urgency and unease.

Overall, "The Storm" is a powerful and evocative poem that demonstrates Roethke's mastery of imagery and sound.