To the Not Impossible Him

This poem is a delightful exploration of the tension between contentment with the familiar and the allure of the unknown. The first stanza introduces the theme of questioning one's satisfaction with their immediate surroundings, wondering if there is more to be found in distant lands. The use of exotic locations like "Cairo" and "Cathay" heightens the sense of mystery and allure associated with the unknown.

In the second stanza, the poet employs the metaphor of a 'Carthaginian rose' to further emphasize the allure of exotic, far-off places. The rose, a common symbol of love and beauty, is given an unfamiliar twist by being associated with Carthage, an ancient city known for its wealth and luxury. This suggests that the familiar beauty of home might be overshadowed by the unfamiliar beauty of distant places.

The final stanza appears to resolve this tension. The poet affirms their 'faithful love' for their current place, indicating a profound sense of rootedness and contentment. Yet, the last line introduces a note of uncertainty, indicating that the allure of the unknown still holds some power over the poet. The structure of the poem, with its alternating lines and rhyming scheme, aids in creating a flow and rhythm that mirrors the back-and-forth contemplation of the speaker. Overall, the poem skillfully presents a universal human dilemma: the conflict between the comfort of the known and the allure of the unknown.