Subway Wind

 Far down, down through the city's great, gaunt gut, 
The gray train rushing bears the weary wind; 
In the packed cars the fans the crowd's breath cut, 
Leaving the sick and heavy air behind. 
And pale-cheeked children seek the upper door 
To give their summer jackets to the breeze; 
Their laugh is swallowed in the deafening roar 
Of captive wind that moans for fields and seas; 
Seas cooling warm where native schooners drift 
Through sleepy waters, while gulls wheel and sweep, 
Waiting for windy waves the keels to lift 
Lightly among the islands of the deep; 
Islands of lofty palm trees blooming white 
That lend their perfume to the tropic sea, 
Where fields lie idle in the dew drenched night, 
And the Trades float above them fresh and free.

Form: Blank verse 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