Dorothy Dances by Louis Untermeyer

S5 E10: Dorothy Dances by Louis UntermeyerLouis Untermeyer’s poem “Dorothy Dances” captures the essence of youthful exuberance and the fleeting nature of joy. The poem vividly portrays the character of Dorothy, who embodies innocence and a carefree spirit. Through rich imagery and rhythmic cadence, Untermeyer captures the dance as a metaphor for life’s ephemeral moments.“Dorothy Dances” invites us to explore the interplay between innocence and the complexities of adult life. Reading this poem allows me to reflect on my own experiences of joy and loss. My key takeaways from “Dorothy Dances” are to appreciate the beauty of simplicity, the importance of cherishing moments of happiness, and an acknowledgment of the bittersweet transitions we all face as we age. Ultimately, “Dorothy Dances” serves as a poignant reminder to embrace life’s dance, with all its ups and downs.Dorothy Dances by Louis UntermeyerThis is no child that dances. This is flame.Here fire at last has found its natural frame.What else is that which burns and fliesFrom those enkindled eyes...What is that inner blazeWhich playsAbout that lighted face?...This thing is fire set free—Fire possesses her, or rather sheControls its mastery.With every gesture, every rhythmic stride,Beat after beat,It follows, purring at her side,Or licks the shadows of her flashing feet.Around her everywhereIt coils its thread of yellow hair.Through every vein its bright blood creeps,And its red handsCaress her as she standsOr lift her boldly when she leaps.Then, as the surgeOf radiance grows strongerThese two are two no longerAnd they mergeInto a disembodied ecstasy;FreeTo express some half-forgotten hunger,Some half-forbidden urge.What mysteryHas been at work until it blentOne child and that fierce element?Give it no name.It is enough that flesh has danced with flame.Music by Epidemic SoundHot Nights in the City By Riverwornhttps://www.epidemicsound.com/track/gHq93ca4U3/“Solitude in Motion” By Golden Age Radiohttps://www.epidemicsound.com/track/L1wFapK56R/