At the Lattice
By Duncan Campbell Scott
Good-night, Marie, I kiss thine eyes,
A tender touch on either lid;
They cover, as a cloud, the skies
Where like a star your soul lies hid.
My love is like a fire that flows,
This touch will leave a tiny scar,
I’ll claim you by it for my rose,
My rose, my own, where’er you are.
And when you bind your hair, and when
You lie within your silken nest,
This kiss will visit you again,
You will not rest, my love, you will not rest.
Poem Analysis:
Duncan Campbell Scott's poem "At the Lattice" is a tender and intimate exploration of love, longing, and the enduring connection between two souls. Through its lyrical language and evocative imagery, the poem captures the depth of emotion and the longing for closeness that transcends physical distance. Let's delve deeper into the poem's themes, imagery, and underlying messages.
Intimate Connection and Longing
The poem opens with a poignant exchange between the speaker and Marie, expressing tender affection and a deep emotional bond. The act of kissing Marie's eyes symbolizes intimacy and connection, as the speaker seeks to leave a lasting impression on her soul. The imagery of Marie's eyes "covering, as a cloud, the skies" suggests the vastness and depth of her inner world, while also alluding to the ethereal nature of their connection. The speaker's longing to claim Marie as "my rose, my own, where'er you are" underscores the enduring nature of their bond, transcending physical separation.
Symbolism of the Kiss
Central to the poem is the symbolism of the kiss as a token of love and belonging. The speaker likens their love to "a fire that flows," suggesting passion and intensity, while acknowledging that the kiss may leave a "tiny scar." This imagery evokes the idea of love's transformative power, as well as the potential for both joy and pain in intimate relationships. The kiss becomes a symbol of ownership and commitment, as the speaker claims Marie as their own, regardless of distance or circumstance.
Persistence of Love
Throughout the poem, the speaker expresses a sense of longing and yearning for Marie's presence, even when they are apart. The image of the kiss "visit[ing] you again" when Marie binds her hair or lies within her "silken nest" suggests the persistence of love and the power of memory to transcend time and space. Despite physical separation, the speaker's love remains constant and unwavering, bringing solace and comfort to both parties.
"At the Lattice" by Duncan Campbell Scott is a lyrical and evocative exploration of love, intimacy, and the enduring connection between two souls. Through its tender language and poignant imagery, the poem captures the depth of emotion and the longing for closeness that defines intimate relationships. Scott's portrayal of love as a transformative force that transcends physical boundaries resonates with readers, inviting them to contemplate the enduring power of love to sustain and enrich the human experience. Ultimately, "At the Lattice" serves as a testament to the enduring nature of love and the profound impact it has on the lives of those who experience it.
