Meaning: The quote "My soul is now her day, my day her night, So I lie down, and so I rise" is from the poem "The Leg" by Karl Shapiro, an American poet who rose to prominence during the mid-20th century. The line captures a sense of entwined existence and the emotional turbulence that accompanies it. Shapiro's poetry often delves into themes of love, relationships, and the human experience. This particular line reflects the intricate nature of relationships and the deeply intertwined connection between two individuals.

In this line, Shapiro uses the metaphorical language to express a profound sense of intertwining and mutual dependence. The concept of day and night is a powerful metaphor for the interconnectedness of the speaker's soul with another person. By stating "my soul is now her day, my day her night," Shapiro conveys the idea that the speaker's emotional and spiritual state is intimately linked to that of the other person. The reciprocity and complementarity implied in the line evoke a sense of mutual reliance and interconnectedness.

The phrase "So I lie down, and so I rise" further emphasizes the interconnected nature of the relationship. It suggests a synchronicity in the actions and emotions of the speaker and the other person. This line conveys a sense of shared experiences and emotions, with the speaker's actions mirroring those of the other person. The cyclical nature of lying down and rising mirrors the ebb and flow of emotions, as well as the shared rhythms of life experienced by the two individuals.

Shapiro's poetry often explores the complexities of human relationships, and this line is no exception. It captures the emotional intensity and interdependence that characterizes many intimate connections. The use of first-person perspective adds a personal and introspective dimension to the line, inviting readers to contemplate their own experiences of intertwined existence and emotional reciprocity.

The quote also highlights Shapiro's skillful use of language and imagery to evoke profound emotional and philosophical themes. The juxtaposition of opposites - day and night, lying down and rising - serves to underscore the interconnectedness and mutual influence between the speaker and the other person. This use of contrast and parallelism adds depth and complexity to the line, inviting readers to ponder the intricacies of human relationships and the interplay of individual identities within them.

In conclusion, Karl Shapiro's quote "My soul is now her day, my day her night, So I lie down, and so I rise" encapsulates the profound interconnectedness and mutual dependence that characterizes human relationships. Through metaphorical language and skillful use of imagery, Shapiro conveys the emotional intensity and reciprocity inherent in intimate connections. The line invites readers to contemplate the intertwined nature of existence and the complex interplay of emotions and actions within relationships.