From the Wreck

Author: Adam Lindsay Gordon

I could scarcely believe that I heard him aright,
For I thought that I could not be right,
When I fancied I heard him sigh,
And I fancied I heard him speak.

But I drew the blanket tight,
And lay awake that night,
Thinking of the face so pale,
And the cheek so wan and white.

For I saw him lying there,
And the hand that was thin and bare,
Was clasped on his weary breast,
As if in some silent prayer.

And the moonlight shone on the bed,
And the light was cold and white,
As I lay in the silence, and watched him
Till the morning dawned so bright.
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Type of Poem: Narrative Poem

Date Written: 1869-01-01

Date Published: 1870-01-01

Language: English

Keywords: Wreck, Moonlight, Silence, Prayer, Morning

Source: Bush Ballads and Galloping Rhymes

Publisher: Clarson, Massina & Co.

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: A haunting narrative poem that captures the eerie silence and solemnity of a scene where a man lies in the aftermath of a wreck, reflecting on life and death.

Exploring Narrative Poetry

Narrative poetry is a form of poetry that tells a story, often making use of the voices of a narrator and characters as well. Unlike lyric poetry, which focuses on emotions and thoughts, narrative poetry is dedicated to storytelling, weaving tales that captivate readers through plot and character development.

Narrative poems are unique in their ability to combine the depth of storytelling with the expressive qualities of poetry. Here are some defining characteristics:

  • Structured Plot: Narrative poems typically have a clear beginning, middle, and end, following a plot that might involve conflict, climax, and resolution, much like a short story or novel.
  • Character Development: Characters in narrative poems are often well-developed, with distinct voices and personalities that drive the story forward.
  • Descriptive Language: The language used in narrative poetry is vivid and descriptive, painting a clear picture of the scenes and events, while also conveying the emotions and atmosphere of the story.

From ancient epics like "The Iliad" and "The Odyssey" to more modern narrative poems, this form continues to engage readers by blending the art of storytelling with the beauty and rhythm of poetry.