The title of the poem 'A Jelly-Fish' draws me in, because of my interest of marine life. I am unclear as to the purpose of Moore's use of an alternate spelling with a hyphen. The contrast presented in the first line, 'Visible, invisible', hints to the hidden danger of the jellyfish. Moore's use of the term 'fluctuating charm' can be interpreted two different ways. There is fluctuating, as in the floating motion of the jellyfish or that the level of his charm can fluctuate. Moore's describtion, 'an amber-tinctured amethyst', paints a picture of the beauty and elegance of a jellyfish, although I am aware of their danger. As you read on, you realize the subject is drawn to touch and ultimately catch, this thing of such grace. For the subject, it is the 'quiver' of the jellyfish, that causes him to abandon his intent. Which leads me to question if the 'quiver' was threatening or provided a pause for the subject to withdraw and respect the jellyfish in its natural habitat. I myself, have been captivated by the charm of jellyfish, but also weary of the danger they present. I have seen first hand the victim of a sting and the pain that was inflicted.
what a simple picture this poem creates, doesn't it? I too enjoyed this work by Moore. As i read it over and over, I felt as if the person had intended to catch the jelly fish but as it quivered it moved out of reach. I like the idea that you brought up that the quiver may have provided just enough pause for the person to decide that the danger involved with the capture of it was too great. Such a quick moment in time -- a fascination that could have ended in tremendous pain, but is left to remain a great intrigue.
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