Author: Madison Julius Cawein

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    I Heard a reed among the hills,
    A woodland reed of music where,
    Like madcap children, ran the rills,
    Boisterous, with wildly flowing hair.

    I knew it for a pipe the Spring
    Tuned to the rapture in her heart,
    That in the egg should shape the wing,
    And in the seed the wildflower start.

    And I I followed where it blew,
    And found a valley, dim and green,
    A wild spot, like a drop of dew,
    Hung glimmeringly two hills between.

    I heard the flute, a bird-like note,
    That made the place a magic well,
    On which enchantment seemed to float,
    A spirit in a rainbow shell.

    I knew what danced there with its flute,
    Unseen, a part of soul and mind:
    I saw the imprint of its foot,
    In many a flower of orchis-kind.

    I knew it of an ancient race,
    Some myth the Greeks had known of old.
    Could I have spoken it face to face
    Of what lost dreams I might have told!

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Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

Publisher:

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: This poem is an enchanting exploration of nature's scenes and sounds, invoking the magic of the earth's untouched beauty. It is rich in imagery and metaphors, which effortlessly transport the reader to the tranquil setting described by the poet. The central theme revolves around the fusion of the physical and spiritual realms, as the poet delves into the harmony between nature and human consciousness.

The structure of the poem is consistent, maintaining a rhythm that echoes the music of the reed, which serves as a potent symbol throughout the piece. The reed's music not only depicts the vibrancy of spring but also represents the intrinsic melody of life and the universe. Moreover, the reed is personified as a musician, adding a mystical quality to the poem.

The tone is one of awe and reverence, reflecting the poet's deep admiration for the natural world and its mysteries. The poem also introduces elements of Greek mythology, suggesting the timeless allure and wisdom inherent in nature. The last two lines hint at a longing for a deeper connection with the mythic entity, underscoring the human desire to understand and communicate with the mystical aspects of existence.

In terms of literary devices, the poet employs similes, personification, and metaphors effectively to create vivid imagery. The metaphor of the wild spot as a "drop of dew" is particularly striking, encapsulating the immense beauty found in nature's minutiae. Furthermore, the use of alliteration in "wildly flowing hair" and "wild spot" augments the rhythm of the poem and underscores the wild, primal essence of the described scene.

Overall, this poem is a beautiful tribute to nature's majesty, illustrating the deep spiritual connection between humans and the natural world, a theme that continues to resonate in today's ever-urbanizing society.