The Last Leaf

Author: Russell Hilliard Loines


The last leaf falls, and with it goes
The final whisper of the year,
The winds that once were filled with song
Now carry only echoes near.

The last leaf dances on the breeze,
A fleeting trace of autumn's past,
And as it settles on the ground
The world is still and quiet at last.

Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written: 1920-01-01

Date Published: 1920-05-01

Language: English

Keywords: Leaf, Autumn, Endings, Silence, Change

Source: Collected Poems

Publisher: Privately Published

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: A reflective poem that uses the imagery of the last leaf falling to symbolize the end of a cycle, capturing the quiet and stillness that follows change.

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.