Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening – Robert Frost

When we talk about poems by Robert Frost, the most popular one is always The Road Not Taken. However, one poem comes close, and that’s the one I will talk about today.

While the poem seems really simple on the surface, its meaning runs really deep. It talks about a conflict that many of us often face – the one between finding a moment of solace versus our pending obligations.

While the poem touches upon many themes, the one main theme is the journey of life. It talks about how, in isolation, we can feel tranquillity and calm; but life doesn’t stop for us. It is important to be aware of the promises one has made. We should not deviate from our path due to momentary desires, and fix our eyes on the destination.

Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening
by Robert Frost

Whose woods these are I think I know.   
His house is in the village though;   
He will not see me stopping here   
To watch his woods fill up with snow.   

My little horse must think it queer   
To stop without a farmhouse near   
Between the woods and frozen lake   
The darkest evening of the year.   

He gives his harness bells a shake   
To ask if there is some mistake.   
The only other sound’s the sweep   
Of easy wind and downy flake.   

The woods are lovely, dark and deep,   
But I have promises to keep,   
And miles to go before I sleep,   
And miles to go before I sleep.

Featured Image from Google Images (Andrea Middleton)