To The Unknown Fear

About this poem

The poet in this poem is struggling with a decision about which path to take in life. The first path, symbolized by the "paths leading east," represents a peaceful but potentially mendacious path. The second path, symbolized by the "heat" and "elation," represents a more tumultuous and possibly liberating path. The poet is torn between these two options and turns to coteries (groups of people with similar interests) for guidance, but finds that they offer conflicting views and no decisive answer. As the poet struggles with this decision, time seems to mock him, reminding him of the passing of time and the uncertain nature of the future. In the end, the poet decides to choose the path of peace, recognizing its flaws but ultimately feeling that it will offer more meaning and fulfillment than the alternative. The poet's poetry is then buried and forgotten, symbolizing the end of this chapter in his life and the start of a new one. The poem ends with the poet returning home, seemingly poor and without any clear direction or purpose more »