A Blown Rose.

Author: Madison Julius Cawein

    Lay but a finger on
     That pallid petal sweet,
    It trembles gray and wan
     Beneath the passing feet.

    But soft! blown rose, we know
     A merriment of bloom,
    A life of sturdy glow, - 
     But no such dear perfume.

    As some good bard, whose page
     Of life with beauty's fraught,
    Grays on to ripe old age
     Sweet-mellowed through with thought.

    So when his hoary head
     Is wept into the tomb,
    The mind, which is not dead,
     Sheds round it rare perfume.
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Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

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Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: This poem is a beautifully constructed metaphor for the endurance and fragility of beauty, particularly as it relates to the human condition and the passing of time. The poet starts with a delicate image of a petal trembling under the weight of a touch, illustrating the vulnerability of physical beauty. This is contrasted in the second stanza with the more resilient, vibrant rose, an emblem of life's vigor and resilience, but it lacks the same profound aroma, suggesting that simple vitality cannot match the depth of more fragile, elusive beauty.

The poem then transitions to the metaphor of a bard, whose life, rich with beauty, moves towards the winter of old age. The bard's physical beauty may wane like the petal, yet his mind, brimming with wisdom and experience, exudes a rare perfume even in death. This comparison of the petal and the bard underscores the theme that true beauty, like wisdom, becomes more profound and impactful with time. As the physical form fades, the essence or spirit remains vibrant, casting a lasting impact that endures beyond the physical life.

The structure of the poem, with its regular meter and rhyme scheme, gives it a gentle, rhythmic quality that mirrors the natural ebb and flow of life and time. This sense of rhythm, coupled with the repeated image of a 'perfume' as a symbol for enduring beauty and wisdom, reinforces the poem's central theme and leaves a lasting impression. The tone of the poem is reflective and melancholic, yet ultimately uplifting, offering a poignant commentary on the beauty of life, the inevitability of aging, and the enduring power of the human spirit.

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.