avatarLouise Moulin

Summary

The poem "Angeline" reflects on the life of a woman who took drastic actions after her partner was imprisoned and disappeared, with the speaker expressing unwavering belief in her dreams and potential for redemption.

Abstract

"Angeline" is a poignant poem that tells the story of a woman who has been through significant turmoil following the incarceration of her partner. The narrative unfolds with the speaker acknowledging the heavy burden Angeline has faced and the subsequent actions she took to claim what she was owed before vanishing. The poem delves into the grapevine chatter about Angeline's dramatic response, which is likened to fire falling from the sky, yet the speaker empathizes with her, recognizing that everyone has moments of darkness. Despite the uncertainties of Angeline's current situation, including her whereabouts and well-being, the speaker remains optimistic, believing in Angeline's dreams and her ability to find joy as a wanderer. The poem suggests that Angeline's departure was a wise decision, a necessary step in a life that feels like a race against time. The speaker encourages Angeline to embrace her musical talents and to continue seeking opportunities, knocking on doors with determination. "Angeline" is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the complexities of personal redemption.

Opinions

  • The speaker shows deep empathy for Angeline, understanding the reasons behind her drastic actions.
  • There is a sense of solidarity, as the speaker implies that both they and Angeline are aware of life's inherent challenges and the inevitability of death.
  • The poem conveys a belief in the power of dreams and the importance of pursuing them, despite life's hardships.
  • The speaker dismisses the negative talk surrounding Angeline's actions, emphasizing that everyone does bad things at times.
  • There is a strong undercurrent of hope and faith in Angeline's ability to transform her life and find joy in her journey.

Angeline

Poem

Photo by Javier Ezpeleta on Unsplash

I haven’t heard from you in a while, not since they took your man to jail. And I guess it was pretty heavy, at the time.

And no one can blame you, for taking what they owed you and disappearing, down the line.

A tale told on the grapevine of what you did and how — fire fell from the sky. But hey, we all do bad things, Angeline, sometimes.

Who cares what they said you and I know in our bones since birth — it’s a race, against death.

I don’t know where you are or how much money you have or even if you have, a change of clothes.

But every soul has a dream and I believe in you, Angeline.

I hope you took your songs — and become a joyous vagabond and knock with red knuckles on every dark city door, that you can.

And Angeline. It was only partly your fault when the timings all off in that destiny waltz and the wisest thing dearest Angeline, was to bolt.

We all have our yearnings, and demons and God knows not all those sunny highways lead the faithful, to Rome.

Poetry On Medium
Poem
Life
Hopes And Dreams
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