What thing is this that, built of salt and lime
Edna St. Vincent Millay
1892 to 1950
What thing is this that, built of salt and lime
And such dry motes as in the sunbeam show,
Has power upon me that do daily climb
The dustless air?—for whom those peaks of snow
Whereup the lungs of man with borrowed breath
Go labouring to a doom I may not feel,
Are but a pearled and roseate plain beneath
My winged helmet and my wingèd heel.
What sweet emotions neither foe nor friend
Are these that clog my flight? what thing is this
That hastening headlong to a dusty end
Dare turn upon me these proud eyes of bliss?
Up, up, my feathers!—ere I lay you by
To journey barefoot with a mortal joy.
Edna St. Vincent Millay's What thing is this that, built of salt and lime
I am busy working to bring Edna St. Vincent Millay's "What thing is this that, built of salt and lime" to life through some unique musical arrangements and will have a full analysis of the poem here for you soon.
At V2Melody, each arrangement is crafted with care through a thoughtful partnership of human artistry and technological innovation. This process involves:
- Deep analysis of the poem's rhythm, structure, and emotional essence
- Careful selection of musical styles that enhance the poem's unique voice
- Balancing traditional poetic expression with contemporary sound landscapes
- Multiple revisions to ensure the arrangement honors the poet's original vision
This creative journey takes time—each composition represents hours of dedicated work to create something that deepens our connection to Edna St. Vincent Millay's words in meaningful ways.
While you wait for the complete interpretation, I invite you to explore other musical arrangements in my gallery or learn more about Edna St. Vincent Millay's life and contributions to literature.
Check back soon to experience how "What thing is this that, built of salt and lime" transforms when verse meets melody—a unique journey that makes poetry accessible, engaging, and profoundly moving in new ways.
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