Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Velvet Shoes" is a poem written by Elinor Wylie, first published in 1921. It is a lyrical poem that explores the theme of unrequited love and the power of memory.

Explanation:

The poem is addressed to a woman who is described as wearing "velvet shoes," a symbol of her elegance and refinement. The speaker of the poem recalls a time when she was in love with the woman, but the feeling's not mutual. The speaker reflects on the pain of unrequited love, describing it as "a wound to be hidden from sight." Despite this pain, the speaker cannot forget the woman, and the memory of her remains vivid in the speaker's mind.

Poetic Elements:

• Form: The poem consists of three stanzas, each with six lines. The rhyme scheme is ABABCC, with the last line of each stanza serving as a refrain.
• Imagery: The velvet shoes are a powerful symbol that represents the woman's beauty and grace. The speaker also uses vivid imagery to describe the pain of unrequited love, comparing it to a "wound."
• Repetition: The refrain, "O, I am in love with you," is repeated at the end of each stanza, emphasizing the speaker's ongoing love for the woman.

Conclusion:

"Velvet Shoes" is a poignant exploration of the pain of unrequited love and the power of memory. Through vivid imagery and repetition, the poem captures the intensity of the speaker's emotions and her enduring love for the woman.