EDNA ST. VINCENT MILLAY

[1892–1950]

Wild Swans

Born in Rockland, Maine, Edna St. Vincent Millay (1892–1950) was encouraged to write from an early age by her mother. In 1912, at her mother’s urging, Millay entered her poem “Renascence” into a contest; she won fourth place, publication in The Lyric Year, and a scholarship to Vassar. She spent the Roaring Twenties in Greenwich Village acting, writing plays and prize-winning poetry, and living a bohemian lifestyle. In 1923 her book The Harp Weaver was awarded the Pulitzer Prize. Millay continued to write and take an active part in political affairs for several decades thereafter, despite a diminished literary reputation.

I looked in my heart while the wild swans went over.

And what did I see I had not seen before?

Only a question less or a question more;

Nothing to match the flight of wild birds flying.

Tiresome heart, forever living and dying,

House without air, I leave you and lock your door.

Wild swans, come over the town, come over

The town again, trailing your legs and crying!

[1921]