Flower In The Crannied Wall

By Alfred Lord Tennyson

Lyric Poem
Flower in the crannied wall, I pluck you out of the crannies, I hold you here, root and all, in my hand, Little flowerbut if I could understand What you are, root and all, and all in all, I should know what God and man is.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem is a profound exploration of nature, man, and divinity, all embodied in the metaphor of a flower plucked from a crannied wall. The poet's tone is one of wonder and inquiry, as he uses the simple act of observing this 'little flower' to delve into larger existential questions. The theme revolves around the interconnection of all forms of life and the quest for understanding the essence of existence.

The structure of the poem is compact and direct, with the entire meditation unfolding in one dense, continuous thought. Despite its brevity, the poem's depth and complexity are striking. The poet's use of repetition, particularly the phrase 'root and all, and all in all,' emphasizes his fascination and frustration with his inability to fully grasp the essence of the flower, which symbolizes the mystery of life and divinity. The poem concludes with a powerful assertion that to understand the flower in its entirety would mean understanding 'what God and man is,' suggesting that all forms of life are interconnected and hinting at a divine thread running through everything. This poem, thus, invites readers to look beyond the surface of things and recognize the profound mysteries that lie within the seemingly ordinary.

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.