Meaning of "Poetry Man" by Phoebe Snow

"Poetry Man" is a heartfelt and bittersweet song that explores the experience of infatuation and the complexities of desire. The narrator is enchanted by the Poetry Man, finding joy and laughter in his presence. Through lines like "your eyes they light the night" and "you make things all rhyme," the lyrics capture the entrancing effect this person has on the narrator. The intensity of their emotions is emphasized through contrasting descriptions of feeling like a giggling teenager and a sultry vamp when with the Poetry Man.

However, the song takes a poignant turn in the final verse. The mention of the Poetry Man having a wife adds a layer of melancholy to the narrative. The realization that the Poetry Man's home is somewhere else forces the narrator to confront the limitations of their connection. It symbolizes the inevitable end to their affair and the separation they must face. Their longing and desire are heightened by the phrase "you make things all rhyme," suggesting that without the Poetry Man, the narrator's world loses its poetic order.

"Poetry Man" captures the universal experience of being infatuated with someone who is unattainable, reminding listeners of the complexities of desire and the fragility of human emotions. It also serves as a reflection on the transitory nature of relationships and the pain that can arise when confronted with the reality of unfulfilled longing. The contrast between the joyful and passionate moments with the Poetry Man and the inevitability of their separation adds depth to the song, engaging listeners and evoking a sense of nostalgia and longing.