Poems About Envy: The Green-Eyed Monster in Verse

Envy is a universal emotion that has been explored through poetry for centuries. From Shakespeare to contemporary poets, envy has been a popular theme because of its complex and dark nature. In this article, we will delve into poems that capture the essence of envy and its destructive power.

Envy in Shakespearean Poetry

William Shakespeare was a master at exploring human emotions, including envy. In his play "Othello," the character Iago embodies envy and manipulates those around him out of jealousy. One of the most famous soliloquies on envy comes from the play "Othello," where Iago says:

"O, beware, my lord, of jealousy;
It is the green-eyed monster which doth mock
The meat it feeds on."

The imagery of the "green-eyed monster" perfectly captures the consuming and destructive nature of envy.

Contemporary Poems on Envy

Envy continues to be a popular theme in contemporary poetry. Sylvia Plath, in her poem "Envy," explores the feeling of inadequacy and resentment towards others. She writes:

"As she turned to water, Wendy grew
A dark, rich envy of Rachel smiling.
... And I envied the moustaches of art critics
I hadn't yet snared, loved the husband's
Radio that woke him as though she'd never
Fathomed loneliness, envy of Christina's
Doric and frank-voiced labour, breath that never
Whiffled up thinking itself the sea."

Plath's poem captures the intensity of envy and the comparison with others that often leads to dissatisfaction and bitterness.

Envy and Beauty in Poetry

Many poets have explored the theme of envy in relation to beauty. Lord Byron, in his poem "She Walks in Beauty," conveys a sense of admiration tinged with envy towards a beautiful woman. He writes:

"She walks in beauty, like the night
Of cloudless climbs and starry skies;
And all that's best of dark and bright
Meet in her aspect and her eyes."

Byron's poem highlights how envy can be intertwined with admiration and longing.

Poems about envy offer a glimpse into the darker side of human nature. From Shakespeare's timeless verses to contemporary poets' introspections, envy continues to be a rich source of inspiration for poets. Through vivid imagery and powerful language, poems about envy explore the complexities of this destructive emotion and its impact on individuals.