Hymn For The Dedication Of Memorial Hall At Cambridge, June 23, 1874

By Oliver Wendell Holmes

Lyric Poem
    Where, girt around by savage foes,     Our nurturing Mother's shelter rose,     Behold, the lofty temple stands,     Reared by her children's grateful hands!     Firm are the pillars that defy     The volleyed thunders of the sky;     Sweet are the summer wreaths that twine     With bud and flower our martyrs' shrine.     The hues their tattered colors bore     Fall mingling on the sunlit floor     Till evening spreads her spangled pall,     And wraps in shade the storied hall.     Firm were their hearts in danger's hour,     Sweet was their manhood's morning flower,     Their hopes with rainbow hues were bright, -     How swiftly winged the sudden night!     O Mother! on thy marble page     Thy children read, from age to age,     The mighty word that upward leads     Through noble thought to nobler deeds.     TRUTH, heaven-born TRUTH, their fearless guide,     Thy saints have lived, thy heroes died;     Our love has reared their earthly shrine,     Their glory be forever thine!

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
The poem is a vivid exploration of themes such as remembrance, reverence, courage, and truth. It is set in a temple, which, both physically and metaphorically, represents a sanctuary built by the grateful offspring of a nurturing Mother. This Mother could stand for a nation, culture, or any larger entity that serves as a collective parent. Using this setting, the poet beautifully interweaves the past and present, the earthly and the divine.

The poem employs a formal structure, with a consistent rhyme scheme, which lends a sense of solemnity and ritual that complements the content. The tone is reverential and also somewhat melancholic, focusing on the sacrifices of those who came before. The use of visual imagery and strong metaphors, such as "volleyed thunders of the sky" and "rainbow hues," create a vivid sensory experience for the reader. The final stanza is a powerful culmination that ties in the theme of truth as the guiding force that has led these nameless heroes and saints to their noble deeds. It’s a poignant reminder of the virtues of courage, sacrifice, and dedication to truth, and a call for the younger generation to honor and uphold these values.

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.