The Book DialogueSarah’s Musings on Katherine Mansfield
It is with great admiration and reverence that we commemorate the centenary of Katherine Mansfield’s passing, a remarkable author and poet whose words have captured the essence of human emotions and experiences. Though she may have left this world a century ago, her words continue to resonate, enchanting readers with their timeless relevance
Katherine Mansfield in 1912, Public domain, via Wikimedia CommonsIn her poignant poem “The Meeting,” Mansfield beautifully depicts a bittersweet encounter filled with longing and heartache. The verses evoke a sense of yearning, as two individuals are torn between the desire to be together and the certainty of their inevitable parting.
Katherine’s ability to capture the complexities of human connections is truly remarkable. Through her carefully chosen words, she vividly portrays the internal struggles of her protagonists. The symbolism of the ticking clock represents the passing of time and the fear of losing the precious moments shared between two souls.
“The Meeting” is a profound reflection on the transient nature of relationships and the profound impact they leave on our lives. Katherine’s lyrical style and emotional depth make her a timeless voice in the world of literature.
As we honor Katherine Mansfield’s legacy, let us immerse ourselves in her captivating works and continue to appreciate the immense talent she possessed. Though she may have left this world a century ago, her words continue to resonate, enchanting readers with their timeless relevance.
Sarah
Sarah’s Musings on Katherine Mansfield and her poem, “The Meeting”. – The Book Dialogue
The Meeting
By Katherine Mansfield
We started speaking,
Looked at each other, then turned away.
The tears kept rising to my eyes.
But I could not weep.
I wanted to take your hand
But my hand trembled.
You kept counting the days
Before we should meet again.
But both of us felt in our hearts
That we parted for ever and ever.
The ticking of the little clock filled the quiet room.
“Listen,” I said. “It is so loud,
Like a horse galloping on a lonely road,
As loud as a horse galloping past in the night.”
You shut me up in your arms.
But the sound of the clock stifled our hearts’ beating.
You said, “I cannot go: all that is living of me
Is here for ever and ever.”
Then you went.
The world changed. The sound of the clock grew fainter,
Dwindled away, became a minute thing.
I whispered in the darkness. “If it stops, I shall die.”
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