Author: William Ernest Henley
Thick is the darkness - Sunward, O, sunward! Rough is the highway - Onward, still onward! Dawn harbours surely East of the shadows. Facing us somewhere Spread the sweet meadows. Upward and forward! Time will restore us: Light is above us, Rest is before us. 1876
Type of Poem: Lyric Poem
Date Written:
Date Published:
Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Publisher:
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Comments/Notes: This poem is a compelling exploration of the human condition, specifically our capacity for hope and perseverance in the face of adversity. The theme of the poem is prominently one of voyage and struggle, conveyed through a desolate yet stirring tone. The opening lines, "Thick is the darkness - Sunward, O, sunward! Rough is the highway - Onward, still onward!" depict a challenging journey, emphasizing the hardships with the use of harsh consonants and evocative imagery. Yet the repeated exhortations of 'sunward' and 'onward' also provide an uplifting message, suggesting that the speaker is encouraging themselves, or perhaps others, to keep moving forward, to keep seeking the light.
The poem is structured with a consistent rhyme scheme and rhythm, lending it a certain musicality that serves to reinforce its motivational spirit. The use of personification in "Dawn harbours surely East of the shadows" conveys a powerful sense of optimism, personifying Dawn as a safe haven waiting for us beyond our present struggles. The poem concludes on a hopeful note, "Light is above us, Rest is before us," suggesting the promise of relief and peace after the journey’s trials. This poem, while short, is rich with metaphors of darkness and light, journey and destination, which symbolize life's struggles and the hope for a better tomorrow. Its main literary device is thus, the use of metaphors, which, combined with the uplifting tone and rhythmic structure, make it an empowering piece about human resilience.
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:
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.