Wild Swans at Coole 1917 Quotes

Creates a metaphor highlighting Yeats’ concern with aging

‘Autumn’, ‘october,’ and ‘twilight’

The birds __ symbolising the lack of control Yeats has over Maud and the environment around him

‘Scatter’

This auditory imagery depicts the loudness of the swans flying away

‘Upon their clamorous wings’

He envies the swans as they mate for life, he wants this for himself and Maud

‘Unwearied still, lover by lover’

Symbolises how love is not ugly despite a person’s age, highlights unrequited love for Maud

‘Their hearts have not grown old’This idea is reiterated as a metaphorical reference to Maud

This idea is reiterated as a metaphorical reference to Maud

‘Mysterious and beautiful’

Yeats is grappling with the idea Maud may not return his love for meaning his artistry lacks purpose without a muse. The quote clearly defines the uncertainty Yeats feels as a poet, and the inner conflict he is facing

‘When I awake some day…To find they have flown away?’