Relationship Summary

The poem “Relationship” describes a (back) complex emotional journey. It depicts a disregard that’s been built, symbolized by a citadel, covered in snow that turns into smoke, signifying a transient and insubstantial nature. The persona’s feelings are guarded, with a silent sentry wearing searching eyes, indicating vigilance. The presence of another person is felt deeply, every breath affecting their very essence as they follow the path dictated by the other person. Despite this, there’s a sense of fragility as they navigate through it, each step compared to a rose with warm, raw vessels.

 

The poem also portrays a moment of joy and spontaneity, with laughter tumbling down an unknown slope. Yet, the persona’s awakening to reality leads to confusion, and they cry out “friendship” – possibly as a coping mechanism to rationalize their feelings.

 

 

The poem takes a turn as it addresses someone who interferes, represented by “Soundless rage,” disrupting the persona’s guarded emotional state. The sentry’s pacing stops suddenly, and the poem touches on themes of concealment (“purdah”) and focused intent (“businesslike stride”). The persona, symbolized as “sandalwood enveloping you,” is deeply intertwined with the other person’s presence.

 

The poem closes with a sense of probing and questioning, as these features “cling, dig, slash” through the persona’s emotional landscape like moonlight that has been lost. The persona is left grappling with the question of what exactly is transpiring between them and the other person.

 

 

The poem navigates through layers of emotions, guardedness, and uncertainty, while exploring the complexities of a relationship that remains enigmatic and profound.