Farewells

By Abram Joseph Ryan

Lyric Poem
    They are so sad to say: no poem tells     The agony of hearts that dwells     In lone and last farewells.     They are like deaths: they bring a wintry chill     To summer's roses, and to summer's rill;     And yet we breathe them still.     For pure as altar-lights hearts pass away;     Hearts! we said to them, "Stay with us! stay!"     And they said, sighing as they said it, "Nay."     The sunniest days are shortest; darkness tells     The starless story of the night that dwells     In lone and last farewells.     Two faces meet here, there, or anywhere:     Each wears the thoughts the other face may wear;     Their hearts may break, breathing, "Farewell fore'er."

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem is a poignant exploration of the universal theme of loss, and the accompanying feelings of sorrow and longing. The language used is evocative and poignant, effortlessly portraying the depth of human emotions and the bitter sting of inevitable goodbyes. Its tone is melancholic and deeply reflective, creating a somber atmosphere that resonates with the reader.

The poem's structure features a consistent rhythm, creating a sense of continuity and flow that helps to enhance the emotional impact of the piece. The repetition of the phrase "lone and last farewells" is significant, reinforcing the poem's central theme and lending a sense of finality to the experience it describes. Another standout feature is the poet's use of metaphoric language, particularly in the comparison of farewells to deaths and the suggestion that they bring a 'wintry chill' to summer's vibrancy. This effectively communicates the transformative nature of loss and the profound sadness it can cause. Finally, the use of dialogue in the third stanza is notable, as it serves to personify the hearts and emphasize their unwillingness or inability to remain with their owners, further deepening the sense of loss. In conclusion, this is a deeply moving piece of poetry that offers a profound exploration of the human experience of parting.

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.