An Exile's Farewell

Author: Adam Lindsay Gordon

Farewell to the land of the wattle and gum,
Where the parrots in multitudes fly,
Where the kangaroo bounds with his marvellous spring,
And the emu speeds heedlessly by.

Farewell to the plains, where the wildflowers bloom,
Where the myall and sandalwood grow,
Where the wattles and waratahs wave their bright plumes,
And the jasmine and jessamine blow.

Farewell to the forests, deep, dark and grand,
With their myriad of voices so strange,
Where the lyre-bird, mocking the truest of all,
Gives voice to his wondrous range.

Farewell to the rivers, the lakes, and the streams,
That meander through verdant dells,
Where the waterfowl dip in the silvery stream,
And the magpie melodiously swells.

Farewell to the bush, and the hills, and the dales,
Where the myriads of butterflies roam,
Where the kookaburra laughs with his rollicking glee,
As I bid you farewell to my home.
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Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written: 1868-01-01

Date Published: 1870-01-01

Language: English

Keywords: Exile, Farewell, Land, Nature, Australia

Source: Sea Spray and Smoke Drift

Publisher: Clarson, Massina & Co.

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: A heartfelt farewell to Australia, the poem reflects the deep connection the poet feels to the land and its natural beauty, as he prepares to leave his home.

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.