End of April

A blossoming cherry tree can symbolize many things. In several cultures, it represents the fleeting nature of life, since its blooms only last a short time before dropping or withering away. This corresponds with Levin’s speaker’s lost connection with the “you,” since a cherry tree in full bloom represents a healthy vitality and vibrancy. In Japan specifically, there are differing meanings regarding the name of the cherry tree, sakura (See: Further Reading & Resources). The first is a practical translation, something that is known for putting forth flowers. The second, and more relevant to Levin’s poem, is a lodging chosen by a spirit. The cherry tree thus symbolizes both the vitality and beauty of nature and its fragility.

The speaker compares the eggshell to “a delicate toy” (Line 8). Since the speaker has already established that they have been thinking of someone before they see the eggshell, they equate the eggshell to the relationship they are remembering. It suggests that the relationship was treated as a plaything. However, it was also “delicate” (Line 8) suggesting that it should have been handled with care, like a porcelain doll or a toy with a spring that could easily be broken. The assumption was the eggshell would remain intact and produce something, but while it is not “shattered” (Line 3), it is, in fact, damaged beyond repair.