In My Craft or Sullen Art
Poetry
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Dylan Thomas
In My Craft or Sullen Art Full Poem
In My Craft or Sullen Art
By Dylan Thomas (1914-53)
In my craft or sullen art
Exercised in the still night
When only the moon rages
And the lovers lie abed
With all their griefs in their arms,
I labour by singing light
Not for ambition or bread
Or the strut and trade of charms
On the ivory stages
But for the common wages
Of their most secret heart.
Not for the proud man apart
From the raging moon...
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In My Craft or Sullen Art Summary
Summary:
The Poet’s Work: The poet talks about his "craft" or skill, which is writing poems. He calls it "sullen" because sometimes it feels lonely or sad. He writes at night when everything is quiet. During this time, when the moon is shining brightly, the world feels still. Everyone, especially lovers, is sleeping, holding their sadness and emotions close to them.
The Reason for Writing: The poe...
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In My Craft or Sullen Art Character
Characters:
The Poet (the speaker): The poet is the main voice of the poem.
The Lovers: They represent love and deep emotions, but they don’t praise or reward the poet.
The Proud Man: He is a distant, superior figure who thinks highly of himself.
The Dead: These are famous people from the past who are remembered through songs and prayers.
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In My Craft or Sullen Art Key Facts
Key Facts:
Writer: Dylan Thomas (1914 - 53)
Original Title: In My Craft or Sullen Art
Source: Deaths and Entrances (Thomas's poetry collection)
Written Time: Between 1945-1946
Published Date: 1946
Form: Lyric poem
Genre: Poetry (Modernist/20th Century)
Tone: Reflective, Solemn, and Personal
Point of View: First person (The poet speaks about his own craft)
Total Lines: 22 Lines...
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In My Craft or Sullen Art Quotations
Quotation
Quote: “In my craft or sullen art / Exercised in the still night”
Character / Speaker: The Poet (Dylan Thomas himself)
Stanza: 1
Explanation: The poet begins by describing poetry as his “craft” — a skill and also an emotional labor. He works quietly at night, in solitude, showing that poetry is a private and devoted act, not a performance for others.
Quote: “When only the moon rag...
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