Wireless

By Alfred Noyes

Lyric Poem
    Now to those who search the deep,         Gleam of Hope and Kindly Light,     Once, before you turn to sleep,         Breathe a message through the night.     Never doubt that they'll receive it.     Send it, once, and you'll believe it.     Wrecks that burn against the stars,         Decks where death is wallowing green,     Snare the breath among their spars,         Hear the flickering threads between,     Quick, through all the storms that blind them,     Quick with words that rush to find them.     Think you these aërial wires         Whisper more than spirits may?     Think you that our strong desires         Touch no distance when we pray?     Think you that no wings are flying     'Twixt the living and the dying?     Inland, here, upon your knees,         You shall breathe from urgent lips,     Round the ships that guard your seas,         Fleet on fleet of angel ships;     Yea, the guarded may so bless them     That no terrors can distress them.     You shall guide the darkling prow,         Kneeling thus--and far inland--     You shall touch the storm-beat brow         Gently as a spirit-hand.     Even a blindfold prayer may speed them,     And a little child may lead them.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem explores the themes of hope, faith, and the power of prayer, using maritime and celestial imagery to craft a vivid narrative. The tone is encouraging and uplifting, imbuing the reader with a sense of optimism in the face of adversity. The structure of the poem, using consistent rhyming quatrains, creates a rhythm that is almost like a hymn or incantation, reinforcing the spiritual undertones of the piece.

The poem's metaphoric language of "Wrecks that burn against the stars," and "Fleet on fleet of angel ships," paints a picture of a spiritual connection bridging the terrestrial and celestial realms. The poet also uses personification, implying that desires and prayers have wings and can travel great distances. This demonstrates the belief in the transcendent power of prayer, a key theme in the piece. The poem concludes with the comforting notion that even the simplest prayer can provide guidance and solace, reinforcing the theme of faith and its power to console and lead. This work is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the belief in a higher power.

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.