W.H. Auden, one of the most influential poets of the 20th century, is renowned for his thought-provoking and emotionally-charged poetry. His love poems, in particular, are known for their unique and captivating style. Auden’s exploration of love encompasses a wide range of themes, from the joy and ecstasy of romantic love to the complexities and struggles of human relationships.
In Auden’s love poems, he often delves into the depths of human emotions, exposing the vulnerability and longing that comes with love. His words have the power to stir the soul and resonate with readers on a profound level. Through his masterful use of language and imagery, Auden captures the essence of love in its various forms, leaving an indelible mark on the literary world.
Whether you are a fan of poetry or simply curious about exploring the works of W.H. Auden, his love poems offer a captivating journey into the realm of human emotions. From passionate declarations of love to poignant reflections on the complexities of relationships, Auden’s words have the ability to touch the hearts of readers and leave a lasting impression.
Unique and Beautiful W.H. Auden Love Poems
“Lay your sleeping head, my love,
Human on my faithless arm;
Time and fevers burn away
Individual beauty from
Thoughtful children, and the grave
Proves the child ephemeral:
But in my arms till break of day
Let the living creature lie,
Mortal, guilty, but to me
The entirely beautiful.”
“O tell me the truth about love.
Is it really the kindest star
That watches us from above?
Is it soft as an easy chair?
Is it wise or foolish –
Bitter or sweet?
What is true love – do you know?
Is it tender or cruel,
Is it foolish or wise?
Can it burn like a blazing fire
Or is it ice cold?
Is it completely blind,
Or does it have a keen eye?
Does it have a golden voice,
Or does it speak in a whisper?
Can it be trusted,
Or is it fickle and fleeting?
What is true love – do you know?”
“I’ll love you, dear, I’ll love you
Till China and Africa meet,
And the river jumps over the mountain
And the salmon sing in the street,
I’ll love you till the ocean
Is folded and hung up to dry
And the seven stars go squawking
Like geese about the sky.”
“If equal affection cannot be,
Let the more loving one be me.”
“Love each other or perish.”
“In headaches and in worry
Vaguely life leaks away,
And time will have his fancy
To-morrow or to-day.”
“But all the clocks in the city
Began to whirr and chime:
‘O let not Time deceive you,
You cannot conquer Time.”
“You were my enemy: such an enemy as no man ever had. I had given you all my heart and all my soul, and instead of being kind to me and helping me, you were the enemy, the cruel, unfeeling enemy of my happiness.”
“I love you more than I can say.
The winds that blow across the sea
Are not as dear to me.”
“I love you! I love you!
I love you as the water loves the sea,
As the twilight fills the sky with stars,
And the earth with flowers.”
These are just a few examples of the unique and beautiful love poems penned by W.H. Auden. Each poem showcases his immense talent for capturing the complexities and nuances of love, making his work timeless and universally relatable.
Discover the magic of W.H. Auden’s love poems and let his words transport you to a world where love knows no bounds.
