Welcome to Poem of the Day – An Apprehension by Elizabeth Barrett Browning
Elizabeth Barrett Browning, one of the most influential poets of the Victorian era, is known for her deep and expressive poetry. Her work often explores themes of love, emotions, and personal struggles. One of her lesser-known but thought-provoking poems is An Apprehension. This poem captures the feelings of fear, uncertainty, and longing in a profound way.
An Apprehension Poem
IF all the gentlest-hearted friends I know
Concentred in one heart their gentleness,
That still grew gentler till its pulse was less
For life than pity,—I should yet be slow
To bring my own heart nakedly below
The palm of such a friend, that he should press
Motive, condition, means, appliances,
My false ideal joy and fickle woe,
Out full to light and knowledge; I should fear
Some plait between the brows, some rougher chime
In the free voice. O angels, let your flood
Of bitter scorn dash on me ! do ye hear
What I say who hear calmly all the time
This everlasting face to face with GOD ?
An Apprehension Explanation
Summary of the Poem
An Apprehension is a poem about the fear of losing love. The speaker expresses deep concern that love, which seems so strong, may suddenly fade or disappear. The poem reflects the insecurity that often accompanies deep emotions. The poet describes love as something delicate, almost like a dream that might vanish at any moment. This fear leads to an emotional struggle, as the speaker tries to hold on to something that feels both powerful and fragile.
Themes in the Poem
Fear of Loss: The central theme of the poem is the anxiety that love may not last. The speaker worries about changes in emotions and circumstances.
Uncertainty in Love: The poem explores the unpredictable nature of love. Even when it feels strong, there is always the possibility of change.
Emotional Struggle: The speaker’s words reflect an inner conflict between hope and fear, joy and sadness.
Analysis of the Poem
Browning uses powerful imagery to convey the speaker’s emotions. She compares love to something fragile and fleeting. The tone of the poem is melancholic, showing the speaker’s deep concerns. The poet’s choice of words emphasizes the vulnerability of love.
The rhythm and structure of the poem also contribute to its impact. The flow of the lines mirrors the speaker’s shifting emotions, moving between hope and apprehension. The use of rhetorical questions and vivid descriptions adds to the emotional depth of the poem.
Conclusion
Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s An Apprehension is a moving poem that captures the uncertainty and fear that often come with deep love. Through her poetic language and imagery, she expresses the delicate balance between joy and fear in human emotions. This poem remains relevant today, as it reflects the universal experience of love and its uncertainties.
