Silence

 Since I lost you I am silence-haunted,
Sounds wave their little wings 
A moment, then in weariness settle
On the flood that soundless swings.

Whether the people in the street
Like pattering ripples go by, 
Or whether the theatre sighs and sighs
With a loud, hoarse sigh: 

Or the wind shakes a ravel of light
Over the dead-black river,
Or night’s last echoing 
Makes the daybreak shiver: 

I feel the silence waiting 
To take them all up again 
In its vast completeness, enfolding
The sound of men.

Form: Ballad Comments

Comments About This Poem

Share your interpretation, favorite passage, or thoughts about this famous poem. Please provide an in-depth and meaningful comment.

  • What do you think the poet was trying to say?
  • Which line had the biggest impact on you?
  • How does this poem relate to modern life?
  • What literary devices did you notice?
No comments have been posted yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace