The Fugitive

Author: John Frederick Freeman

    In the hush of early even
    The clouds came flocking over,
    Till the last wind fell from heaven
    And no bird cried.

    Darkly the clouds were flocking,
    Shadows moved and deepened,
    Then paused; the poplar's rocking
    Ceased; the light hung still

    Like a painted thing, and deadly.
    Then from the cloud's side flickered
    Sharp lightning, thrusting madly
    At the cowering fields.

    Thrice the fierce cloud lighten'd,
    Down the hill slow thunder trembled;
    Day in her cave grew frightened,
    Crept away, and died.
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Type of Poem: Ballad

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

Publisher:

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: This poem is a vivid exploration of nature's capriciousness and power, specifically focusing on a storm's advent and progression. The narrative structure of the poem is marked by a clear movement from calmness to turmoil, with each stanza revealing a new stage in the storm's unfolding. The themes of transition, unpredictability, and the sublime terror of natural phenomena are central to this piece.

The tone is ominous and foreboding, which is reflected in the poet's choice of words such as "darkly," "deadly," "madly," and "frightened." These words create a sense of tension and unease, enhancing the dramatic effect of the storm. The poet skillfully employs personification, presenting "Day" as a sentient entity that becomes "frightened" and "creeps away," symbolizing the transition from day to night, and from tranquility to chaos. The use of onomatopoeic words like "flocking" and "trembled" further enhances the sensory experience, making the scene palpable to the reader.

As for the structure, the poem is composed of four quatrains, each depicting a different phase of the storm. This structure aids in building a narrative progression, with each stanza adding to the intensity of the previous one. This poem stands out for its vivid imagery, emotive language, and effective use of literary devices, which together create a stirring portrayal of a storm's wrath.

Understanding Ballads

A ballad is a form of verse, often a narrative set to music, that has been a cornerstone of storytelling across various cultures. Traditionally passed down orally, ballads are known for their rhythmic structure and often tell tales of love, adventure, and heroism.

Ballads are characterized by their strong rhythm and repetition, making them both memorable and engaging. Here are some defining features:

  • Narrative Structure: Ballads typically tell a story, often a dramatic or emotional tale that unfolds in a straightforward, chronological order.
  • Quatrain Stanzas: Most ballads are composed of quatrains (four-line stanzas) with a rhyme scheme of ABAB or ABCB, which adds to the musicality of the verse.
  • Repetition: Refrains or repeated lines are common in ballads, helping to emphasize key themes or emotions and making the ballad easier to remember.
  • Oral Tradition: Many ballads originated from oral traditions, which means they were passed down through generations by word of mouth before being written down.

From medieval minstrels to contemporary songwriters, ballads have continued to evolve, remaining a beloved form of expression that captures the human experience in a way that is both poetic and accessible.