Wayside Flowers

By William Allingham

Lyric Poem
Pluck not the wayside flower, It is the traveller's dower; A thousand passers-by Its beauties may espy, May win a touch of blessing From Nature's mild caressing. The sad of heart perceives A violet under leaves Like sonic fresh-budding hope; The primrose on the slope A spot of sunshine dwells, And cheerful message tells Of kind renewing power; The nodding bluebell's dye Is drawn from happy sky. Then spare the wayside flower! It is the traveller's dower.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem is a beautiful tribute to the natural world and the small, often overlooked wonders it offers. The theme is centered on the appreciation and preservation of nature's beauty, particularly the wayside flowers which are presented as gifts ('dower') for travelers. The tone is both contemplative and instructional, calling for respect towards these humble, yet significant, natural elements.

The structure is simple and consistent, leading the reader from one image to the next with a rhythm that echoes the gentle beauty of the subject matter. The poet makes use of various literary devices to enhance the poem's impact. The metaphor of the flower as a traveler's 'dower' or dowry is particularly compelling, elevating the simple wayside flower to a valuable treasure. There is also personification, as nature is depicted as consciously 'caressing' and offering 'blessings' to its observers.

The poet also uses vivid imagery that encourages the reader to visualize and connect with the scene. The 'violet under leaves' symbolizing hope, the 'primrose on the slope' acting as a 'spot of sunshine', and the 'nodding bluebell's dye' drawn from the 'happy sky' all contribute to the central theme of finding beauty and solace in nature. Ultimately, the poem is not just a celebration of nature's beauty, but also an evocative plea for its preservation.

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.