He Thinks of Those who Have Spoken Evil of His Beloved (Poem by William Butler Yeats)

Poem Analysis:

William Butler Yeats’s poem “He Thinks of Those Who Have Spoken Evil of His Beloved” explores the themes of love, criticism, pride, and the enduring power of poetry. Through a speaker who defends his beloved against public criticism, Yeats presents love as a source of loyalty and artistic inspiration. The poem also suggests that the truth of a person’s worth may eventually overcome the unfair judgments of society.

The poem begins with the gentle command, “Half close your eyelids, loosen your hair,” which creates an intimate and peaceful atmosphere. These words suggest tenderness and encourage the beloved to rest rather than worry about the opinions of others. The speaker then asks her to “dream about the great and their pride,” introducing the contrast between the beloved and those who criticize her. The phrase “the great and their pride” may refer to influential people who consider themselves superior and use their social position to judge others.

The speaker directly acknowledges that the beloved has been criticized: “They have spoken against you everywhere.” This line emphasizes the widespread nature of the hostility directed toward her. However, the speaker does not respond with anger or violence. Instead, he offers his song as a defense of her character and worth. His artistic creation becomes an alternative to the damaging words of her critics.

The line “But weigh this song with the great and their pride” is especially significant. The verb “weigh” suggests a comparison between the speaker’s poetry and the authority of powerful people. Although the speaker may lack social status or influence, he believes that his artistic expression possesses a value that surpasses their pride. This idea is reinforced by the next line, “I made it out of a mouthful of air.” The image of air suggests the immaterial nature of poetry, which is created from breath and words. Yet something seemingly fragile and temporary can become a powerful and lasting expression of love.

The final line, “Their children’s children shall say they have lied,” introduces the theme of time and lasting reputation. The speaker confidently predicts that future generations will recognize the injustice of the critics’ accusations. The reference to “children’s children” emphasizes the distant future and suggests that poetry can preserve truth beyond the limits of an individual lifetime. While public opinion may be unfair in the present, the speaker believes that history will eventually correct it.

Yeats’s poem presents love and poetry as powerful responses to criticism and social pride. Through intimate language, contrast, and the promise of future vindication, the poet shows that genuine affection is not easily defeated by public judgment. The poem ultimately celebrates the enduring power of artistic expression, suggesting that words inspired by love may survive long after the false accusations of others have been forgotten.