Wild Heart

Author: John Frederick Freeman

    Wild heart, wild heart,
    Where does the wind find home?
    Wild heart, wild heart,
    Where does the wild blood rest?
    Home, home,
    Rest, rest--
    Unto you I come
    And catch you to my breast.

    Wild heart, wild heart,
    There the wind will sleep.
    Wild heart, wild heart,
    And the blood gently flow.
    Come, come,
    Unresting rest
    Within my heart's cave deep
    Where thoughts like bright stars glow.

    Wild heart, wild heart,
    Here, here is your home.
    Wild heart, wild heart,
    With that winged star I come.
    Home, home,
    Rest in unrest--
    Unto you, wild heart, I come.
    My wild heart is your home.
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Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

Publisher:

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: This poem is a poignant exploration of the relentless pursuit of solace and home. The poet interweaves a narrative of a wild heart seeking its place of rest, thereby delving into the themes of restlessness, belonging, and love. The repetition of the phrase "wild heart" underscores the tumultuous nature of the heart, underlining its untamed, restless character.

The poem’s tone is tender and beseeching, signifying a yearning for tranquility within the chaos. This is achieved through the repeated invocation of 'home' and 'rest', symbolizing a sanctuary or haven. Structurally, the poem uses a repeated stanza pattern, lending a musical quality and reinforcing its thematic unity.

The poem is rife with vivid imagery and metaphor, most notably in the depiction of the heart as a cave where "thoughts like bright stars glow". This suggests both depth and illumination, a place of profound introspection. The phrase "Rest in unrest" is a paradox that highlights the complex nature of the human heart, which often finds comfort in the tumult.

Overall, the poem is an emotive reflection on the quest for inner peace and self-acceptance. Through its rhythmic structure and evocative language, it creates a resonant portrait of the heart's journey towards finding its home.

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.