'Hast Thou been working?' Summary

In Ada Negri's powerful poem, "Hast Thou Been Working?" a young woman speaks of her desire for a lover who is not defined by wealth or leisure but by the fire of dedication and hard work. She rejects the allure of a life of ease and luxury, instead longing for a partner whose chest burns with the passion of a life well-lived. The poem explores the importance of work, not merely as a means of sustenance, but as a defining characteristic of an individual's character and worth. It critiques the superficiality of societal standards that prioritize wealth and status over true passion and commitment. Through the lens of a love poem, Negri offers a compelling reflection on the values that truly matter in life, celebrating the human spirit of perseverance and the beauty of a life lived with purpose.