Under The Washington Elm, Cambridge

By Oliver Wendell Holmes

Lyric Poem
April 27,1861     Eighty years have passed, and more,     Since under the brave old tree     Our fathers gathered in arms, and swore     They would follow the sign their banners bore,     And fight till the land was free.     Half of their work was done,     Half is left to do, -     Cambridge, and Concord, and Lexington!     When the battle is fought and won,     What shall be told of you?     Hark! - 't is the south-wind moans, -     Who are the martyrs down?     Ah, the marrow was true in your children's bones     That sprinkled with blood the cursed stones     Of the murder-haunted town!     What if the storm-clouds blow?     What if the green leaves fall?     Better the crashing tempest's throe     Than the army of worms that gnawed below;     Trample them one and all!     Then, when the battle is won,     And the land from traitors free,     Our children shall tell of the strife begun     When Liberty's second April sun     Was bright on our brave old tree!

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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 powerful narrative of struggle, resiliency, and patriotic fervor told within the historical context of the American Civil War. The poet uses the symbolic image of a "brave old tree" under which their forefathers swore to fight for their land's freedom, effectively drawing upon the theme of continuity and the cyclical nature of conflict and resolution.

The structure of the poem, with its consistent rhyming scheme and rhythmic flow, imbues the narrative with a sense of urgency and momentum, mirroring the relentless drive towards freedom that it celebrates. The poet's use of vivid, sensory imagery, such as the “south-wind moans,” “crashing tempest's throe,” and the “murder-haunted town,” creates a stirring tapestry of war's harsh realities and the resilience of those who stand against tyranny. These elements contribute to the poem's overall tone, one of solemn determination and undying hope, underscoring the belief that sacrifices made for liberty are not in vain but will be remembered by future generations. The repeated refrain of the battle being fought and won underscores the poet's belief in their cause's eventual triumph, providing a rallying cry for their contemporaries and a timeless message of persistence and courage.

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.