Against The Cold Pale Sky

By John Frederick Freeman

Lyric Poem
    Against the cold pale sky     The elm tree company rose high.     All the fine hues of day     That flowered so bold had died away.     Only chill blue, faint green,     And deepening dark blue were seen.     There swinging on a bough     That hung or floated broad and low.     The lamp of evening, bright     With more than planetary light,     Was beautiful and free--     A white bird swaying on the tree.     You watched and I watched,     Our eyes and hearts so surely matched.     We saw the white bird leap, leap     Shining in his journey steep     Through that vast cold sky.     Our hearts knew his unuttered cry--     A cry of free delight     Spreading over the clustering night.     Pole Hill grave and stark     Stared at the valley's tidal dark,     The Darent glimmered wan;     But that eager planet winging on,     And singing on, went high     Into the deeps and heights of sky.     And our thoughts rising too     Brightened the mortal darkness through     Trembled and danced and sang     Till the mute invisible heavens rang.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem showcases a beautiful interplay between the natural world and human emotion, employing vivid imagery and metaphors. The key theme appears to be the harmony between humanity and nature, and the shared experience of observing this connection. The tone is both reflective and celebratory, infusing the poem with a serene yet energized vibe.

The structure of the poem enhances its lyrical rhythm, utilizing an abcb rhyme scheme to create a pleasing auditory experience for the reader. A standout literary device is the use of color to evoke atmosphere and emotion - from the "cold pale sky" to the "chill blue, faint green" as the day fades. The "white bird" serves as a powerful metaphor for freedom and beauty, an image that resonates strongly throughout the poem.

The poet also uses repetition to emphasize the connection between the observers and the natural world, particularly in the line "We saw the white bird leap, leap." This repetition gives a sense of immediacy and reinforces the shared experience. The final stanza ties together the human and natural worlds, suggesting that the observers' thoughts rise like the bird, creating a sense of unity and shared joy. This poem is a celebration of the sublime in nature and the profound emotional response it can evoke.

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.