The poem captures a serene yet haunting moment where the speaker reflects on the gentle presence of someone significant, represented by "moth-breath." The imagery of flickering among pink roses suggests a delicate beauty and fragility, evoking a dream-like state that enchants the speaker as they wake. This connection to nature and intimacy creates a sense of tranquility interwoven with underlying tension.

The line "A far sea moves in my ear" introduces a sense of vastness and mystery, implying that the speaker is enveloped in profound thoughts and emotions. The sound of the sea, often symbolic of depth and the unconscious, hints at the complexities of the speaker's feelings, creating a rich tapestry of sensory experiences that resonate beyond the immediate surroundings.