The Flower Of Liberty

By Oliver Wendell Holmes

Lyric Poem
    What flower is this that greets the morn,     Its hues from Heaven so freshly born?     With burning star and flaming band     It kindles all the sunset land     Oh tell us what its name may be, -     Is this the Flower of Liberty?     It is the banner of the free,     The starry Flower of Liberty!     In savage Nature's far abode     Its tender seed our fathers sowed;     The storm-winds rocked its swelling bud,     Its opening leaves were streaked with blood,     Till Lo! earth's tyrants shook to see     The full-blown Flower of Liberty     Then hail the banner of the free,     The starry Flower of Liberty!     Behold its streaming rays unite,     One mingling flood of braided light, -     The red that fires the Southern rose,     With spotless white from Northern snows,     And, spangled o'er its azure, see     The sister Stars of Liberty!     Then hail the banner of the free,     The starry Flower of Liberty!     The blades of heroes fence it round,     Where'er it springs is holy ground;     From tower and dome its glories spread;     It waves where lonely sentries tread;     It makes the land as ocean free,     And plants an empire on the sea!     Then hail the banner of the free,     The starry Flower of Liberty!     Thy sacred leaves, fair Freedom's flower,     Shall ever float on dome and tower,     To all their heavenly colors true,     In blackening frost or crimson dew, -     And God love us as we love thee,     Thrice holy Flower of Liberty!     Then hail the banner of the free,     The starry FLOWER OF LIBERTY!

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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 powerful and evocative celebration of liberty and freedom, using the symbol of a 'starry flower' to represent the flag of a free nation. The theme of liberty is the central pillar around which the entire poem is built. It is a patriotic piece that employs vibrant imagery and metaphors to illustrate the journey toward liberty, the struggles endured, and the triumphant outcome.

The poem's structure is consistent, using a repeating refrain, "The starry Flower of Liberty," which serves to reinforce the central theme and create a rhythmic continuity. The tone is passionate and triumphant, with the poet employing vivid, sensory language to create a palpable sense of pride and reverence for this symbol of freedom.

The poem effectively utilizes color symbolism, with references to red, white, and blue, colors traditionally associated with freedom and liberty in many Western cultures. Furthermore, the imagery of the flower growing, blooming, and enduring through storms is a potent metaphor for the journey of a nation or people toward freedom, often through struggle and hardship.

In conclusion, this poem is a potent and inspiring exploration of the themes of liberty and freedom, using vivid symbolism, evocative imagery, and a consistent structure to powerfully convey its message. It is a celebration of resilience, unity, and the enduring spirit of freedom.

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.