A Flower Given to My Daughter (Reprise)

Author: James Joyce


Fraillest - flower! - how is it
You hold and hark,
A moment to my heart,
Nor yet dare lift to your brow?
What strong arm holds you,
What dear voice - whose breath,
As in a distant land, I heard
The sigh of a dying sigh?

Give me a little while,
Sweet frail flower,
And let me hold you a little nearer
Until you fade and flutter in my hand,
As a child's touch falls on me
Gently as dew.

Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written: 1913-04-21

Date Published: 1927-05-01

Language: English

Keywords: Flower, Daughter, Frailty, Heart, Child

Source: Collected Poems

Publisher: Viking Press

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: A reprise of the earlier tender poem about a flower given to the narrator's daughter, symbolizing the fragility and beauty of life.

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.