The poem describes a scene where the speaker and another are detained and interrogated by a patrol leader and his indifferent men. They are questioned extensively about who they are, where they came from, and what purpose or country they represent. The interrogation goes on all day as the speakers stand answering question after question, watching careless lovers wander by just across the road, unable to choose how to answer or act. They are nearing the edge of their endurance as the interrogation continues.

1. “The Interrogation” By Edwin Muir
an analysis (on page 32)
By Jodie James and Brandon Basinski

2. The poem
We could have crossed the road but hesitated,
And then came the patrol;
The leader conscientious and intent,
The men surly, indifferent.
While we stood by and waited
The interrogation began. He says the whole
Must come out now, who, what we are,
Where we have come from, with what purpose, whose
Country or camp we plot for or betray.
Question on question.
We have stood and answered through the standing day
And watched across the road beyond the hedge
The careless lovers in pairs go by,
Hand linked in Hand wandering another star,
So near we could shout to them. We cannot choose
Answer or action here,
Though still the careless lovers saunter by
And the thoughtless field is near.
We are on the very edge,
Endurance almost done,
And still the interrogation is going on.