In Hospital - XXVI - Anterotics

By William Ernest Henley

Lyric Poem
    Laughs the happy April morn     Thro' my grimy, little window,     And a shaft of sunshine pushes     Thro' the shadows in the square.     Dogs are tracing thro' the grass,     Crows are cawing round the chimneys,     In and out among the washing     Goes the West at hide-and-seek.     Loud and cheerful clangs the bell.     Here the nurses troop to breakfast.     Handsome, ugly, all are women . . .     O, the Spring - the Spring - the Spring!

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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 vivid snapshot of a particular moment on an April morning, using a blend of natural and urban imagery to establish a scene full of life and activity. The poem's tone is one of joy and appreciation, the speaker delighting in the simple pleasures of spring as seen through a "grimy, little window."

The theme of renewal and rebirth, commonly associated with spring, is juxtaposed with the urban elements such as "grimy, little window," "shadows in the square," and "nurses troop to breakfast." This contrast both grounds the poem in reality and highlights the transformative power of spring, making even a mundane urban scene appear vibrant and full of life.

The poem's structure is simple and direct, each stanza presenting a different aspect of the scene. This straightforward presentation allows the imagery to shine. Notable literary devices include the repetition of "the Spring" at the poem's close, emphasizing the speaker's enthusiasm for this season, and the use of personification in the opening line ("Laughs the happy April morn"), which imbues the scene with a playful, lively energy. The regular rhythm and rhyme also contribute to this sense of liveliness, creating a musical quality that echoes the bustling activity depicted in the poem.

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.