Domestic Peace

Author: Anne Bronte

    Why should such gloomy silence reign,
    And why is all the house so drear,
    When neither danger, sickness, pain,
    Nor death, nor want, have entered here?

    We are as many as we were
    That other night, when all were gay
    And full of hope, and free from care;
    Yet is there something gone away.

    The moon without, as pure and calm,
    Is shining as that night she shone;
    But now, to us, she brings no balm,
    For something from our hearts is gone.

    Something whose absence leaves a void--
    A cheerless want in every heart;
    Each feels the bliss of all destroyed,
    And mourns the change--but each apart.

    The fire is burning in the grate
    As redly as it used to burn;
    But still the hearth is desolate,
    Till mirth, and love, and PEACE return.

    'Twas PEACE that flowed from heart to heart,
    With looks and smiles that spoke of heaven,
    And gave us language to impart
    The blissful thoughts itself had given.

    Domestic peace! best joy of earth,
    When shall we all thy value learn?
    White angel, to our sorrowing hearth,
    Return--oh, graciously return!
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Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

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Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: This poem is a poignant exploration of loss, specifically the absence of peace and harmony within a domestic sphere. The poet uses the household setting and natural elements to subtly convey the profound impact of this intangible loss on the inhabitants. The tone is solemn and melancholic, effectively underscoring the theme of sorrow that pervades the poem.

The structure is consistent, with each verse contributing to the gradual unfolding of the sense of loss. It begins with an inquiry about the gloomy atmosphere, despite the absence of apparent hardships. This sets the stage for the revelation that the house is lacking the warmth of 'peace'. The moon and fire, symbols of tranquility and warmth, are portrayed as ineffective in filling the void created by the absence of peace, highlighting the irreplaceable nature of this aspect of domestic life.

The poet employs personification to depict 'peace' as a 'white angel', further emphasizing its purity and significance. The longing for its return is palpable in the repeated plea in the final lines. The use of repetition and capitalization is a powerful tool to underline the heartfelt yearning for restoration of harmony. The poem is an evocative reminder that material comfort and the presence of loved ones are insufficient in the absence of peace, making it a timeless reflection on the essence of human happiness.

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.