Wishing

By William Allingham

Lyric Poem
Ring-Ting! I wish I were a Primrose, A bright yellow Primrose, blowing in the spring! The stooping boughs above me, The wandering bee to love me, The fern and moss to creep across, And the Elm tree for our king! Nay stay! I wish I were an Elm tree, A great, lofty Elm tree, with green leaves gay! The winds would set them dancing, The sun and moonshine glance in, The birds would house among the boughs, And sweetly sing. Oh no! I wish I were a Robin, A Robin or a little Wren, everywhere to go; Through forest, field, or garden, And ask no leave or pardon, Till winter comes with icy thumbs To ruffle up our wing! Well tell! Where should I fly to, Where go to sleep in the dark wood or dell? Before a day was over, Home comes the rover, For mothers kisssweeter this Than any other thing.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem encompasses a playful exploration of identity, nature, and longing. The speaker imagines themselves in various forms - a primrose, an elm tree, and a robin - outlining the unique virtues and experiences of each. The poem reveals an underlying theme of searching for belonging and freedom, with each imagined identity offering its own form of liberation and connection to the natural world.

The poem's tone is yearning and whimsical, with an undercurrent of restlessness. It employs a rhythmic, rhyming structure that enhances its light-hearted feel. The poet utilizes vivid imagery and personification to animate each desired identity, such as the "stooping boughs" that love the primrose and the "icy thumbs" of winter that ruffle the bird's wing. The poem concludes with the speaker's recognition of the comfort and sweetness of home, suggesting that while fantasies of different identities can be enticing, there is an inherent beauty and warmth in one's own reality.

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.