In the desert - A poem by Stephen Crane

Stephen Crane - In the desert

In the desert
I saw a creature, naked, bestial,
Who, squatting upon the ground,
Held his heart in his hands,
And ate of it.
I said: "Is it good, friend?"
"It is bitter - bitter," he answered;
"But I like it
Because it is bitter,
And because it is my heart."

Added: on September 10th, 2009 at 1:53 AM | Viewed: 41448 times | Comments and analysis of In the desert by Stephen Crane Comments (62)

In the desert - Comments and Information
Poet: Stephen Crane (Stephen Crane Art) Poem: 3. In the desert Volume: The Black Riders & Other Lines Year: Published/Written in 1905 Poem of the Day: Jun 28 2000 Comment 62 of 62, added on November 4th, 2009 at 4:13 PM. The key to the poem is this, 'it is my heart'. The meaning is clear: for the self-possessed, the self-owned, even a bitter heart (the desert of mind and body, the anguish of harsh living) is better than paradise offered or crafted by another. Henry Quirk from United States Comment 61 of 62, added on October 10th, 2009 at 11:10 PM. i think that it means that when we look at ourselves often we can only sense the worst parts, but this man's friend is content because he is content with himself and loves even the bitter parts. also whats with all the pessimistic comments? can't you see this is a joyous poen? anon Comment 60 of 62, added on September 10th, 2009 at 1:53 AM. The poem reminds me of a soldier after a battle. After many battles he becomes bitter. This would be a prime example of modern day Post Tramatic stress Syndrome. Even if you win the battle, and the war you are alone and resentful. RESENTMENT HURTS ONLY THE RESENTFUL. DeWayne Allen from United States More Comments >> Are you looking for more information on this poem? Perhaps you are trying to analyze it? The poem, In the desert, has received 62 comments. Click here to read them, and perhaps post a comment of your own. Of course you can also always discuss poems by Stephen Crane with others on the American Poems poetry forum!

Poem Info
Poet: Stephen Crane Poem: 3. In the desert Volume: The Black Riders & Other Lines Year: Published/Written in 1905 Last read: Nov 16 2009, 5:10PM Poem of the Day: Jun 28 2000 Viewed 41448 times. Added on September 10th, 2009 at 1:53 AM.

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