The Surges Gushed And Sounded

By William Ernest Henley

    The surges gushed and sounded,     The blue was the blue of June,     And low above the brightening east     Floated a shred of moon.     The woods were black and solemn,     The night winds large and free,     And in your thought a blessing seemed     To fall on land and sea.     1877

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Analysis & Notes:
This poem exhibits a profound connection between nature and inner human emotions. The author uses vivid, sensory language to paint a scene of a serene, blue June day, characterized by the presence of a "shred of moon," "black and solemn" woods, and "large and free" night winds. The tone is both calming and introspective, and the tranquil imagery serves to evoke a sense of peace and contemplation.

The poem's structure, a series of two-line stanzas, enhances its simplicity and readability. This minimalist structure, however, does not undermine the depth of its themes. Among these is the theme of blessings, represented in the last two lines, where the persona's thoughts impart a sense of blessing upon the land and sea. This highlights the poem's exploration of human capacity to transform and interpret the world around us through our emotional and spiritual responses. The poem also utilizes the literary device of personification, as seen in the "night winds large and free," suggesting an almost sentient, living quality to the natural elements depicted. This further emphasizes the intimate connection between nature and human emotion that permeates this thoughtful piece of verse.

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.