Genius Child
This is a song for the genius child. Sing it softly, for the song is wild. Sing it softly as ever you can - Lest the song get out of hand. Nobody loves a genius child. Can you love an eagle, Tame or wild? Can you love an eagle, Wild or tame? Can you love a monster Of frightening name? Nobody loves a genius child. Kill him - and let his soul run wild.
Genius Child - meaning Summary
Fear and Suppression of Genius
The poem addresses a "genius child" as something both admired and feared. The speaker urges caution—sing softly—because public attention can be dangerous. Repeated assertions that "Nobody loves a genius child" and questions about loving an untamable eagle or frightening monster show society's inability to accept exceptional difference. The final imperative, "Kill him - and let his soul run wild," suggests social suppression of the living person while releasing an uncontrollable, idealized spirit.
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