Cradle Song

By Alfred Lord Tennyson

Lyric Poem
What does little birdie say In her nest at peep of day? Let me fly, says little birdie, Mother, let me fly away. Birdie, rest a little longer, Till thy little wings are stronger. So she rests a little longer, Then she flies away. What does little baby say, In her bed at peep of day? Baby says, like little birdie, Let me rise and fly away. Baby, sleep a little longer, Till thy little limbs are stronger. If she sleeps a little longer, Baby too shall fly away.

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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 tender exploration of growth and maturation, using the metaphor of a bird and a baby yearning for independence. It opens with a bird's desire to fly, met by the mother bird's counsel to wait until its wings are stronger. The second stanza mirrors this with a baby wanting to rise and fly, also advised to rest until stronger. The recurring theme of yearning for freedom and the need for nurturing is a universal experience, making the poem relatable.

In terms of tone, the poem balances the youthful impatience and mature caution, creating a gentle, affectionate atmosphere. The structure of the poem, with a mirrored pattern in the two stanzas, reinforces the parallel between the bird and the baby, enhancing the overall theme. The use of repetition, particularly in the lines "rest a little longer" and "sleep a little longer," further emphasizes the need for patience and growth before venturing into independence. The poet employs simple language and rhyme scheme, which gives the poem a soothing, lullaby-like rhythm, perfect for its theme. This also makes the poem accessible to a wider audience, including children, while the underlying themes can be appreciated by adults. Thus, this piece is a lovely exploration of growth, patience, and the universal desire for 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.