Question

In her poem “In a Queen’s Domain,” what does Piatt seem to be inferring about the world in these lines" And my subject, the dove, coos on, Though my hand creep close to her nest. What aspects of realism do these lines reveal? What comment is Piatt making about the world in which she lives?

Answer 1

Piatt conveys her realist views about nature and society through this poem. She seems to suggest that the world, like nature, is not always ideal. She paints a rational picture of society: “And my subject, the dove, coos on, / Though my hand creep close to her nest.” These lines convey how the world is made up of good people and bad people. The dove represents the people who are benign and trusting, even with those out to harm them. The dubious actions of the narrator of the poem depict those people who try to take advantage of the trust and loyalty of the gentle people. The speaker is depicted as flawed and human. She can hurt others and also be hurt by others. Piatt does not seem to adhere to the romantic idealization of nature and women.