New Year’s Eve by David Herbert Lawrence ranks as one of his most celebrated works and critics have also categorized it to be one of the most sensual romantic poetry.



Well, we should not be surprised by this for Lawrence is known for his intense and intimate romantic writings. New Year is the time to spread love, and D. H. Lawrence in his most celebrated style weaves his magic with words that connect a story which almost seems to be a historical narration, or perhaps a confession by a man who is facing various nuances of emotions as he comes into himself.

This is a poetry that communicates Lawrence’s passion without any veneer. His direct words make the readers’ heart heave with longing – a longing for love, a longing to love and to be loved – and what better gift can a New Year bring to anyone than the gift of intense and passionate love! Lawrence’s intensity of emotions almost seem contagious in this poem.

There are only two things now,
The great black night scooped out
And this fireglow.

This fireglow, the core,
And we the two ripe pips
That are held in store.

Listen, the darkness rings
As it circulates round our fire.
Take off your things.

Your shoulders, your bruised throat!
You breasts, your nakedness!
This fiery coat!

As the darkness flickers and dips,
As the firelight falls and leaps
From your feet to your lips!

– By David Herbert Lawrence

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