'Tis Moonlight, Summer Moonlight

Author: Emily Bronte

    'Tis moonlight, summer moonlight,
    All soft and still and fair;
    The solemn hour of midnight
    Breathes sweet thoughts everywhere,

    But most where trees are sending
    Their breezy boughs on high,
    Or stooping low are lending
    A shelter from the sky.

    And there in those wild bowers
    A lovely form is laid;
    Green grass and dew-steeped flowers
    Wave gently round her head.
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Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

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Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: The poem beautifully captures the serene beauty of a summer's moonlit night, where the speaker seems to find solace and tranquility. The underlying themes of nature and stillness are pervasive, offering readers a peaceful, calming tone. The speaker's appreciation for nature's beauty is conveyed through the vivid imagery of "trees...sending their breezy boughs on high" or providing shelter, painting a picture of a tranquil haven under the open sky.

The structure of the poem, divided into three quatrains, aids in the progression of the narrative, from the general appreciation of the moonlit night to the specific focus on the 'lovely form' laid amidst the 'wild bowers.' This progression suggests a journey inward - from the larger natural world to a more intimate, personal moment. Finally, the poem employs an array of literary devices, such as personification ("midnight breathes sweet thoughts") and visual imagery ("green grass and dew-steeped flowers"), to enhance the sensory experience of the reader. The seamless blend of these elements provides a gentle, soothing rhythm that echoes the peacefulness of the scene being described.

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.