Poems about Wanting Something You Can't Have

Poetry has an uncanny ability to capture the deepest desires and longings of the human heart. One recurring theme that poets often explore is the ache of wanting something beyond reach, something that remains elusive no matter how fervently we yearn for it. In this article, we delve into the realm of unrequited desires and unattainable dreams, showcasing a selection of poignant poems that beautifully depict the bittersweet experience of wanting something you can't have.

1. "Desire" by Samuel Taylor Coleridge

"Desire" by Samuel Taylor Coleridge is a profound exploration of the yearning for what cannot be obtained. Coleridge poignantly describes the relentless nature of desire, comparing it to a flame that consumes the soul. The poem captures the essence of the human condition, where our deepest desires often remain unfulfilled, leaving us in a state of perpetual longing.

Excerpt:

...Desire! If thou be'st born to strange sights,
Things invisible to see,
Ride ten thousand days and nights
Till age snow white hairs on thee,

Thou, when thou return'st, wilt tell me
All strange wonders that befell thee,
And swear
No where
Lives a woman true, and fair.

2. "I Dreamed of You" by Lang Leav

In "I Dreamed of You", contemporary poet Lang Leav eloquently portrays the longing for a love that remains unattainable. The poem captures the essence of unrequited love, where the dream of being with someone is often far more beautiful than reality itself. Leav's words resonate with anyone who has yearned for a love that exists only in their dreams.

Excerpt:

I dreamed of you last night
as I often do,
but this time
you were gone.

I searched high and low
knowing you were near,
but no matter where I looked,
you seemed to disappear.

3. "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock" by T.S. Eliot

T.S. Eliot's "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock" masterfully captures the essence of unfulfilled desires and unattainable aspirations. Prufrock, an anxious and self-conscious protagonist, yearns for love, connection, and a meaningful existence. The poem serves as a reflection on the universal struggle of wanting something beyond reach, while simultaneously grappling with the fear of rejection and the passage of time.

Excerpt:

In the room the women come and go
Talking of Michelangelo...

Shall I part my hair behind? Do I dare to eat a peach?
I shall wear white flannel trousers, and walk upon the beach.

I have heard the mermaids singing, each to each.

These poems serve as poignant reminders of the inherent human longing for what is unattainable. Whether it is the desire for love, fulfillment, or the pursuit of impossible dreams, poets have beautifully captured the essence of longing in their verses. Through their words, we find solace in the knowledge that we are not alone in our yearning for something beyond our grasp. Poetry allows us to explore the depths of our desires and find solace in the shared experiences of others.