All Day I Hear the Noise of Waters (Final Reprise)

Author: James Joyce


All day I hear the noise of waters
Making moan,
Sad as the sea-bird is, when, going
Forth alone,
He hears the winds cry to the water's
Monotone.

The grey winds, the cold winds are blowing
Where I go.
I hear the noise of many waters
Far below.
All day, all night, I hear them flowing
To and fro.

Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written: 1907-01-01

Date Published: 1907-05-01

Language: English

Keywords: Waters, Noise, Sadness, Sea-bird, Wind

Source: Chamber Music

Publisher: Elkin Mathews

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: A final reprise of the earlier poem, emphasizing the persistent and melancholic sound of waters, evoking themes of loneliness and sorrow.

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.