THE WAKING

The Waking

The Waking

Introduction

THE WAKING is a brilliant combination of mysticism, imaginations, fate and sleep written by Theodore Roethke. It is an elaborated villanelle based on only two lines. Like many other poems, it can also be interpreted in different ways which rely on the reader's perception and state of mind.

The poem unfolds with Roethke's long sleep and endless nightmares and goes up to the slow and gradual development of his visionary experience. The intellect is aroused by the practical approach and enthusiasm to enlighten him.

The poem states that life cannot be felt but has to be thought upon. ...