Sara Teasdale’s speaker answers some unspoken concern or curiosity by insisting that being deeply known by just four people is enough for her. She has no desire to open herself to others: the gates to her heart are locked, and no eager seeker will get through. There is a gentle but firm self-possession here, even a touch of dry humor in dismissing “well-meant gallantry.” She refuses pity, says she has not been misunderstood, and calls life good on the whole. Instead of wanting more attention, she would rather keep turning over memories she treasures. The mood is quiet, contented, and a little guarded—someone drawing a clear boundary without anger, more interested in preserving an inner world than in being reached.
A Reply — Summary
Four people knew the very me, Four is enough, so let it be; For the rest I make no chart, There are no highroads to my heart; The gates are locked, they will not stir For any ardent traveller. I have not been misunderstood, And on the whole, I think life good-- So waste no sympathy on me Or any well-meant gallantry; I have enough to do to muse On memories I would not lose.