A Ghost And A Dream

By Madison Julius Cawein

Lyric Poem
    Rain will fall on the fading flowers,     Winds will blow through the dripping tree,     When Fall leads in her tattered Hours     With Death to keep them company.     All night long in the weeping weather,     All night long in the garden grey,     A ghost and a dream will talk together     And sad are the things they will have to say:     Old sad things of the bough that's broken;     Heartbreak things of the leaf that's dead;     Old sad things no tongue hath spoken;     Sorrowful things no man hath said.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
The poem presents a decidedly melancholic and somber exploration of the themes of transience, decay, and mortality. The tone is set by vivid, evocative imagery that brings an autumnal landscape to life, using it as a metaphor for the inevitable cycle of life and death. The rain, winds, fading flowers, and dripping tree all suggest the passage of time and the impermanence of life. The "ghost" and "dream" talking together symbolize memory, regret, and the lingering echo of what once was - a poignant reminder of the inevitable loss that comes with time.

The structure of the poem, with its consistent rhyme scheme and rhythm, reinforces its melancholic tone and themes. A notable literary device used is personification, with Fall leading "her tattered Hours" and Death keeping them company, creating an eerie, mournful atmosphere. The repeated phrase "old sad things" suggests a lament for the past and the transience of life. The final lines highlight the inexpressible depths of sorrow and loss, implying that the most profound emotions often remain unspoken. This poem masterfully intertwines themes, tone, and structure to create a powerful meditation on the melancholy of existence and the inescapability of death.

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.