The West A Glimmering Lake Of Light

By William Ernest Henley

Lyric Poem
    The West a glimmering lake of light,     A dream of pearly weather,     The first of stars is burning white -     The star we watch together.     Is April dead?    The unresting year     Will shape us our September,     And April's work is done, my dear -     Do you not remember?     O gracious eve!    O happy star,     Still-flashing, glowing, sinking! -     Who lives of lovers near or far     So glad as I in thinking?     The gallant world is warm and green,     For May fulfils November.     When lights and leaves and loves have been,     Sweet, will you remember?     O star benignant and serene,     I take the good to-morrow,     That fills from verge to verge my dream,     With all its joy and sorrow!     The old, sweet spell is unforgot     That turns to June December;     And, tho' the world remembered not,     Love, we would remember.     1876

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem is replete with vivid imagery, a strong sense of longing, and a cycle of time that is deeply connected to the human experience of love. The first stanza, with its beautiful evocation of the "glimmering lake of light" and the "first of stars...burning white," sets the tone of quietude and anticipation. The poet contemplates the passing of April, symbolizing youth or beginnings, and foreshadows a September, or maturity, that the year will shape. The repetition of the question "Do you not remember?" underscores the theme of memory and its role in love.

In the second and third stanzas, the poet continues to reflect on the cyclical nature of time, contrasting May with November, June with December. The evocation of these contrasting months suggests parallels between the seasons and the stages of love, from blossoming to maturation. The tone is one of gratitude and contentment, as the poet accepts both the "joy and sorrow" that come with love. The repeated plea to the beloved to remember their shared past is poignant and immediately relatable.

The poem's structure, with its consistent rhythmic pattern and rhyme scheme, mirrors the ebb and flow of time and love it describes. The primary literary device employed is the metaphor of seasons to represent stages of love, a device that is both timeless and powerful. The poem is a testament to the enduring power of love and memory, and a gentle reminder of the transient nature of time.

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.