You Will Hear Thunder

By Anna Akhmatova

Lyric Poem
You will hear thunder and remember me, And think: she wanted storms. The rim Of the sky will be the colour of hard crimson, And your heart, as it was then, will be on fire. That day in Moscow, it will all come true, when, for the last time, I take my leave, And hasten to the heights that I have longed for, Leaving my shadow still to be with you.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
The poem is deeply evocative, delving into themes of memory, longing, and the indomitable spirit. The speaker seems to be addressing a loved one, possibly bidding a final farewell, ensuring that their presence will be remembered every time thunder echoes in the sky. It's a powerful presentation of the desire to be remembered and the human struggle with mortality and impermanence.

The atmospheric imagery is striking, creating a dynamic picture of a stormy sky - the "hard crimson" color serving as a symbol of intense emotion and passion. This vivid tableau mirrors the fiery state the speaker’s heart was in at the time of the event being referenced. The poem's structure is simple yet effective, each line building on the last to construct a poignant narrative, creating a sense of an intimate, soulful conversation.

The use of personification in the line "Leaving my shadow still to be with you" is a standout literary device, which imbues the poem with an air of melancholy and longing. This line suggests an enduring presence, even in the physical absence of the speaker. All in all, the poem is a powerful exploration of love, loss, and the enduring power of memory.

Exploring Lyric Poetry

Lyric poetry is a powerful and intimate form of expression, characterized by its focus on the personal emotions and thoughts of the poet. Often musical in nature, lyric poems resonate with readers through their vivid language and rhythmic flow, capturing moments of intense feeling.

Here are some key characteristics that define lyric poetry:

  • Expressive Language: Lyric poems use rich and evocative language to convey deep emotions, often painting a vivid picture of the poet's inner world.
  • Personal Perspective: Typically written in the first person, these poems offer a window into the poet's personal experiences, thoughts, and reflections.
  • Musicality: Lyric poems often feature a rhythmic structure, with meter and rhyme that give them a song-like quality, enhancing the emotional impact.

From ancient odes to contemporary free verse, lyric poetry remains a beloved and enduring form, celebrated for its ability to articulate the nuances of human emotion in a way that resonates deeply with readers.