The poem's consistent refrain of "who knows, who knows?" emphasizes a sense of uncertainty and longing throughout its stanzas, reflecting the speaker's deep emotional turmoil and the elusive nature of love and time. This repetitive structure reinforces the feeling of unresolved yearning and the search for connection amidst loss.
A Song by Paul Lawrence Dunbar
Thou art the soul of a summer’s day, Thou art the breath of the rose. But the summer is fled And the rose is dead Where are they gone, who knows, who knows? Thou art the blood of my heart o’ hearts, Thou art my soul’s repose, But my heart grows numb And my soul is dumb Where are thou, love, who knows, who knows? Thou art the hope of my after years— Sun for my winter snows But the years go by ‘Neath a clouded sky. Where shall we meet, who knows, who knows?
Use the poem to answer the question. In 1–2 sentences, explain a conclusion that can be drawn about the poem based on its structure. (2 points)
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