Meaning: The quote "Music my rampart, and my only one" is from the poem "Sonnet XLIII" by Edna St. Vincent Millay, an American poet and playwright who achieved fame and critical acclaim in the early 20th century. Born in 1892, Millay was known for her lyrical and emotional poetry that often explored themes of love, loss, and the human experience. This particular quote reflects the profound impact of music on the speaker's life and emotions.

In literature, a rampart is a defensive wall or embankment, often used as a metaphor for protection or refuge. When Millay writes, "Music my rampart," she is expressing the idea that music serves as a protective barrier or stronghold for her. It suggests that music provides solace, comfort, and a sense of security in the face of life's challenges and struggles. The use of the possessive pronoun "my" emphasizes the personal and intimate nature of the speaker's relationship with music, indicating that it is a deeply individual and essential part of her life.

The phrase "and my only one" further underscores the significance of music in the speaker's life. It suggests that music is not just one of many sources of comfort or support, but rather the singular, indispensable source of strength and solace. This portrayal of music as the speaker's "only one" conveys a profound sense of reliance and emotional attachment to this art form.

In the context of the poem "Sonnet XLIII," the quote encapsulates the speaker's emotional dependence on music as a means of coping with the challenges and uncertainties of life. Throughout the sonnet, Millay explores the themes of love, longing, and the passage of time, and the quote serves as a poignant declaration of the speaker's deep emotional connection to music in the face of these universal human experiences.

Millay's poetry often showcases her mastery of language and her ability to evoke powerful emotions through her words. In this quote, the use of the word "rampart" conjures images of strength and protection, while the phrase "my only one" conveys a sense of singular devotion and emotional reliance. The combination of these elements creates a profound and evocative portrayal of the speaker's relationship with music.

In a broader sense, the quote can resonate with anyone who has experienced the profound emotional impact of music in their own lives. It speaks to the transcendent power of music to provide solace, inspiration, and a sense of refuge in times of need. Whether through its melodies, lyrics, or rhythms, music has the ability to touch the deepest parts of the human soul and offer a sense of connection and understanding.

Overall, Edna St. Vincent Millay's quote "Music my rampart, and my only one" encapsulates the profound emotional resonance of music in the speaker's life. Through its evocative language and themes of emotional dependence and solace, the quote serves as a powerful testament to the enduring impact of music on the human experience.