Sing, for it may be that your thoughts have plucked some medicable herb to make our grief less bitter

Sing, for it may be that your thoughts have plucked some medicable herb to make our grief less bitter

William Butler Yeats, one of the most celebrated poets of the 20th century, was known for his profound and thought-provoking works that delved into themes of love, loss, and the human experience. In his poem "The Hosting of the Sidhe," Yeats writes, "Sing, for it may be that your thoughts have plucked some medicable herb to make our grief less bitter." This line encapsulates the power of poetry and music to heal and provide solace in times of sorrow.

Yeats believed in the transformative power of art, particularly poetry, to offer comfort and healing to those who are suffering. In this line, he suggests that through the act of singing or creating poetry, one may be able to find a remedy for their grief. The idea of "plucking some medicable herb" implies that through the act of creation, one may be able to find a cure for their pain and suffering.

Yeats himself often turned to poetry as a means of processing his own emotions and experiences. His works are filled with themes of longing, heartbreak, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. Through his poetry, Yeats was able to explore his own grief and find a sense of catharsis and healing.