The Cranes

By Bertolt Brecht

Lyric Poem
The cranes fly over the city, Their wings beat against the sky. They fly in formation, Like soldiers in the air. The cranes fly over the city, Their cries echo below. They fly on to the horizon, Where the sun sets in the west. The cranes fly over the city, Their wings beat against the sky. They are a sign of freedom, In a world that is not free.
Written: 1930-01-01

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Poem Details

Date Written: 1930-01-01
Date Published: 1930-01-01
Language: German
Keywords: Freedom, Nature, Flight, Symbolism, Hope
Source: Selected Poems
Publisher: Suhrkamp Verlag
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
A poem that uses the imagery of cranes flying over the city to symbolize freedom and hope, contrasting the birds' flight with the constrained lives of those below.

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.