Flood

By James Joyce

Gold-brown upon the sated flood The rock-vine clusters lift and sway: Vaster than legendary fay, Tangles of crimson leaf and bud Stretch forth and lean and stray Casting a drag-net of warm shadow Over the foamless weir and dark-brown pool. They wake on high, unangered, merry waves To breast the marble-bound and crumbling crags Of the silt beach; the pilings of the piers Sunk in far depths of soundless, tangled brine. In a flash of green the vine withdraws. The leaves on the hills tremble and are disheartened: O the brown stones of the weir! Stilly beneath, they stir like pale, lean toads Wary of swimming for the writhen weeds, Their wary glances upward cast to the sun.
Written: 1907-01-01

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Poem Details

Date Written: 1907-01-01
Date Published: 1907-05-01
Language: English
Keywords: Flood, River, Nature, Rocks, Weir
Source: Chamber Music
Publisher: Elkin Mathews
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Analysis & Notes:
A vivid and descriptive poem about the natural landscape, with a focus on the river, rocks, and the impact of the floodwaters.

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.