A Ba

By Madison Julius Cawein

Lyric Poem
    Why speak of Rajah rubies,     And roses of the South?     I know a sweeter crimson     A baby's mouth.     Why speak of Sultan sapphires     And violet seas and skies?     I know a lovelier azure     A baby's eyes.     Go seek the wide world over!     Search every land and mart!     You 'll never find a pearl like this     A baby's heart.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This charming poem is a celebration of the purity and innocence of a baby, extolling its beauty as far more precious than any earthly treasure. The poet uses a number of precious gemstones—Rajah rubies, Sultan sapphires, and pearls—to symbolize worldly riches and grandeur, only to juxtapose them with the simple yet profound beauty of a baby's mouth, eyes, and heart. This comparison elevates the baby's inherent traits over material wealth, suggesting a deeper value system that prizes innocence, purity, and love above all else.

The poem employs an ABAB rhyme scheme, which contributes to its overall musicality and readability. The repeated structure in each stanza—mentioning a precious stone, posing a question, then revealing a baby's feature—creates a rhythmic pattern that enhances the poem's charm. The poet's use of vivid, sensory language (sweeter crimson, lovelier azure) paints a clear and vibrant image, making the poem a powerful sensory experience. The tone is one of reverence and love for the child, demonstrating the profound emotional connection between the speaker and the baby. Ultimately, the poem encourages readers to find beauty and value in life's simplest, most authentic moments.

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.