The structure of "Longing" by Paul Laurence Dunbar emphasizes a repetitive longing for escape, as evident in the repeated phrase "Away, away." This repetition creates a rhythmic urgency that mirrors the speaker's deep desire to break free from their current situation. Additionally, the use of couplets throughout the poem reinforces the contrast between the speaker's longing for peace and the pain of remaining in their current state. The conclusion one can draw from this structure is that the poem reflects a profound internal conflict, where the speaker’s yearning for tranquility is continually thwarted by their reality, highlighting the emotional weight of their longing.
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Longing
by Paul Laurence Dunbar
Away
Away, away I would go if I could,
Perhaps to an overgrown sun-dapple wood;
Away, away I would fly in a flash,
If I thought peace awaited under a towering ash.
Away, away you would wish me go too,
If only the pain of my staying still was known to you;
Away, away you would bid me farewell,
And on my wellbeing, you’d never again dwell.
"Longing" by Paul Laurence Dunbar
Question
Use the poem to answer the question.
In 3–5 sentences, use effective reasoning to explain a conclusion you can draw from the structure of “Away.” Base your conclusion in part on the structure of the poem.
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