Hallowe’en

Author: Violet Jacob

There's a cauld wind blawin' frae the east,
And the licht is pale and thin,

And the rottin' leaves are wavin' fast
Ower the auld graves creepin' in.

And the auld wife seeks her ling at e'en,
And the bairns gae trippin' past;

There's mony a shiver gaes up and doon
Wi' the Hallowe'en nicht blast.

For the nicht is dreich and the win' is saft,
And the moon glints eerie by,

And the auld wives' minds are set on things
That far i' the shadows lie.

They dream of the lichts that flickered dim
I' the mirk whaur the auld folk lay,

And they dread the things that stir the nicht,
That daurna see the day.

But the young folk loup by the burnin' bush
And they're nocht wi' the auld to dae,

For they winna dream as they daur the nicht
That the deid are no far away.
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Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written: 1912-10-31

Date Published:

Language: Scots

Keywords: Hallowe'en, Superstition, Scotland, Ghosts, Night

Source: Collected Poems of Violet Jacob

Publisher:

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: A poem capturing the eerie atmosphere of Hallowe'en night, steeped in Scottish folklore and superstition.

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.