"In Paris with You" is a poem written by James Fenton that explores the theme of unrequited love. The speaker of the poem is in Paris with their beloved, but the beloved is not reciprocating their affection. The speaker is left to contemplate the futility of their feelings and the bittersweetness of being in a city known for its romance while feeling alone.
The poem begins with the speaker describing their surroundings in Paris, setting the scene for the bittersweet mood that follows. The speaker talks about the "frosty morning" and "dead leaves" that surround them, creating a sense of loneliness and melancholy. This is further emphasized by the fact that the speaker is alone, "all by myself," in a city known for its romance and love.
As the poem progresses, the speaker begins to reveal their feelings of unrequited love. They describe their beloved as "cool" and "indifferent," showing that their feelings are not being returned. The speaker reflects on the futility of their love, saying that it is "useless to think about." Despite this, they cannot help but continue to love their beloved, even though it brings them pain.
The speaker's loneliness is further highlighted by the contrast between the beauty of Paris and their own inner turmoil. The speaker describes the city as "lovely" and "gorgeous," with its "great big skies" and "vistas." However, they are unable to fully enjoy these sights because of the pain of their unrequited love. The speaker's internal conflict is palpable, as they long for the love and connection they desire but are unable to attain.
As the poem comes to a close, the speaker reflects on the fleeting nature of love and the impermanence of life. They speak of "all the people who have died" and how "none of them are here" with them in Paris. This serves as a reminder that love, like life, is temporary and cannot be taken for granted.
In conclusion, "In Paris with You" is a poignant and emotional exploration of unrequited love. Through the speaker's reflections on their surroundings and their own feelings, the poem delves into the pain and longing that can come with loving someone who does not return those feelings. The poem also touches on the themes of impermanence and the fleeting nature of life and love.