Eros Turannos Comments

When I use the phrase male dominance, I'm speaking of something pathological, deeply unhealthy, and potentially violent. Note that this a poem about a love affair gone wrong because of naivete and immaturity on the part of both the guy and the girl. It is not about male dominance. Yes the guy was a tool, but this poem is about the tragic consequences of faithlessness, not male dominance. Let's call a spade a spade and leave the vapid platitudes to the illiterate paid rioters.

Yes! Read this poem aloud. The rhythm is seductive as befits the subject matter.

Robinson's comments on the quiet acceptance of male dominance of early 20th century America are brilliantly worded: 'While all the town and harborside / Vibrate with her seclusion'. It's surprising how the stanza 'We tell you, tapping on our brows...' can still be said to be relevant in today's society.

This poem needs to be read aloud. The musical rhythm is exquisite. It's amazing that a man-from so long ago no less-could capture the feelings of a woman in a bad realtionship so succintly.