When I went to look at what had long been hidden,
A jewel laid long ago in a secret place,
I trembled, for I thought to see its dark deep fire—
But only a pinch of dust blew up in my face.

I almost gave my life long ago for a thing
That has gone to dust now, stinging my eyes—
It is strange how often a heart must be broken
Before the years can make it wise.

Analysis, meaning and summary of Sara Teasdale's poem Dust

2 Comments

  1. Gina says:

    I think Sara is realizing that she might have made a mistake in choosing a husband. I dont know when she wrote this, but if it was after divorcing her husband, perhaps she is just regretting the choice she made…

  2. Kiley says:

    In this poem, Sara is looking for her true love, only to find it missing.

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