Hands

By John Frederick Freeman

Lyric Poem
    Your hands, your hands,     Fall upon mine as waves upon the sands.     O, soft as moonlight on the evening rose,     That but to moonlight will its sweet unclose,     Your hands, your hands,     Fall upon mine, and my hands open as     That evening primrose opens when the hot hours pass.     Your hands, your hands,     They are like towers that in far southern lands     Look at pale dawn over gloom-valley'd miles,     White temple towers that gleam through mist at whiles.     Your hands, your hands,     With the south wind fall kissing on my brow,     And all past joy and future is summed in this great "Now!"

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem resonates with themes of love, passion, and the fleeting nature of time. The constant repetition of the phrase "your hands, your hands," immediately establishes a sense of intimacy and tenderness. The poet employs the symbolism of hands to represent the powerful connection between two people, making it the core image that anchors the entire piece.

The poet's use of similes and vivid, sensory language creates a rich tapestry of images that enhance the overall mood and tone. For instance, the comparison of the lover's hands to waves falling upon sands and to moonlight on an evening rose paints a picture of gentle, serene affection. The subsequent comparison to towers in far southern lands introduces an element of grandeur and a sense of the exotic. This variation in imagery effectively conveys the depth and complexity of the emotions involved.

The structure of the poem, in repeating and varying the central image, conjures a rhythm that mirrors the ebb and flow of love itself. The final line, "And all past joy and future is summed in this great 'Now!'" draws attention to the present moment, suggesting that their love is transcendent, encompassing both past and future. This line serves as a powerful conclusion, leaving readers with an impression of a love that is both timeless and immediate.

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.