Question

Refer to Explorations in Literature for a complete version of this poem.

In "Daystar" by Rita Dove, how does the image of the woman closing her eyes and wanting to "see only her own vivid blood" affect the poem?

Responses

It suggests the woman's deep regrets over her mistakes.
It suggests the woman's deep regrets over her mistakes.

It helps convey her deep need for some peaceful time alone.
It helps convey her deep need for some peaceful time alone.

It highlights the way being a mother makes the woman feel alive.
It highlights the way being a mother makes the woman feel alive.

It indicates that, deep down, the woman is selfish.

Answer 1

It helps convey her deep need for some peaceful time alone.

The image of closing her eyes to "see only her own vivid blood" focuses attention inward, emphasizing bodily, personal reality and a longing to reclaim herself apart from caregiving duties. It suggests a desire for solitude and selfhood, not simply regret, motherhood-as-joy, or selfishness.