Where Once the Waters of Your Face

By Dylan Thomas

Lyric Poem
Where once the waters of your face Spun to my screws, your dry ghost blows, The dead turns up its eye; Where once the mermen through your ice Pushed up their hair, the dry wind steers Through salt and root and roe. Where once your green knots sank their splice Into the tided cord, there goes The green unraveller, His scissors oiled, his knife hung loose To cut the channels at their source And lay the wet fruits low. Invisible, your clocking tides Break on the lovebeds of the weeds; The weed of love's left dry; There round about your stones the shades Of children go who, from their voids, Cry to the dolphined sea. Dry as a tomb, your coloured lids Shall not be latched while magic glides Sage on the earth and sky; There shall be corals in your beds There shall be serpents in your tides, Till all our sea-faiths die.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
The poem under review presents a rich tapestry of nautical imagery and metaphors, serving as a lament for lost love and the fleeting nature of life. The poet uses the sea as an extended metaphor, where 'waters of your face' and 'mermen through your ice' evoke a sense of intimate connection and vibrant life now lost. The transition from a lively sea full of mermen and green knots to a 'dry ghost' blowing and a 'dry wind' steering illustrates the transition from life to death, from connection to disconnection.

The tone of the poem is melancholic and reflective, echoing the themes of loss and decay. The repeated use of the word 'dry' underscores the absence of life and vitality, and the 'coloured lids' that 'shall not be latched' suggest a refusal to close off past experiences, however painful they may be. In terms of structure, the poet employs free verse, allowing for a more flexible and organic exploration of these heavy themes. Noteworthy is the use of vivid metaphors and personification, such as 'the dead turns up its eye' and 'the green unraveller,' adding layers of complexity and inviting readers to dive deeper into the emotional depths of the poem. The ending line, 'Till all our sea-faiths die,' serves as a poignant reminder of the inevitable end of all things, further cementing the somber mood of the piece.

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.