My most distinguished guest and learned friend,
The pallid hare that runs before the day
Having brought your earnest counsels to an end
Now have I somewhat of my own to say:
That it is folly to be sunk in love,
And madness plain to make the matter known,
These are no mysteries you are verger of;
Everyman’s wisdoms these are, and my own.
If I have flung my heart unto a hound
I have done ill, it is a certain thing;
Yet breathe I freer, walk I the more sound
On my sick bones for this brave reasoning?
Soon must I say, “’Tis prowling Death I hear!”-
Yet come no better off, for my quick ear.
I am busy working to bring Edna St. Vincent Millay's "My most distinguished guest and learned friend" to life through some unique musical arrangements and will have a full analysis of the poem here for you later.
In the meantime, I invite you to explore the poem's themes, structure, and meaning. You can also check out the gallery for other musical arrangements or learn more about Edna St. Vincent Millay's life and contributions to literature.
Check back soon to experience how "My most distinguished guest and learned friend" transforms when verse meets melody—a unique journey that makes poetry accessible, engaging, and profoundly moving in new ways.