SUPPER comes at five o’clock,
At six, the evening star,
My lover comes at eight o’clock—
But eight o’clock is far.
How could I bear my pain all day
Unless I watched to see
The clock-hands laboring to bring
Eight o’clock to me.
"Eight O'Clock" by Sara Teasdale is a brief yet evocative poem that captures a fleeting moment of reflection and contemplation. Through its concise and vivid language, the poem explores themes of stillness, introspection, and the passage of time.
The poem's title, "Eight O'Clock," immediately anchors the reader in a specific moment in time, emphasizing the precision of the hour. This time marker sets the stage for a moment of pause and introspection.
Teasdale uses sensory imagery to describe the sights and sounds of the evening. The "whispering rain" and the "soft pedal" suggest a hushed and tranquil atmosphere.
The poem's central theme revolves around the idea of taking a moment to be still and reflective. The speaker describes the act of "sitting quietly" and listening to the "steady sound of rain." This suggests a meditative state in which the speaker is attuned to the world around them.
The poem's brevity and simplicity contribute to its impact. It captures a moment of quietude and self-awareness, inviting readers to consider the value of such moments in a busy and hectic world.
"Eight O'Clock" is a contemplative poem that encourages readers to pause and appreciate the simple moments of stillness and introspection in life. It conveys the idea that amidst the rush of daily existence, taking time to sit quietly and observe the world around us can be a source of solace and self-discovery. The poem serves as a reminder of the importance of mindfulness and the beauty that can be found in the small and quiet moments of life.
