A Road Song

By Madison Julius Cawein

Lyric Poem
    It's - Oh, for the hills, where the wind's some one     With a vagabond foot that follows!     And a cheer-up hand that he claps upon     Your arm with the hearty words, "Come on!     We'll soon be out of the hollows,     My heart!     We'll soon be out of the hollows."     It's - Oh, for the songs, where the hope's some one     With a renegade foot that doubles!     And a jolly lilt that he flings to the sun     As he turns with the friendly laugh, "Come on!     We'll soon be out of the troubles,     My heart!     We'll soon be out of the troubles!"

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem exudes a sense of restless longing and a powerful optimism. The theme of overcoming adversity and the promise of better times ahead is conveyed through the repeated refrain, "We'll soon be out of the hollows/troubles, My heart!" This repeated assurance infuses the poem with a sense of hope and resilience. The use of personification, presenting both the wind and the hope as individuals with "vagabond" and "renegade" feet respectively, adds a sense of vitality and restlessness to the poem.

The structure of the poem, with its repeated refrains and direct addresses to "my heart", creates a rhythmic and almost song-like quality. This, coupled with the cheerful tone, reinforces the overall positive message. The tone is also conveyed through the use of language that's invigorating and uplifting, like "cheer-up hand", "jolly lilt", and "friendly laugh". This optimistic language is a standout feature of the poem. The piece, therefore, offers a compelling mix of longing, anticipation, and a relentless spirit of positivity, making it an uplifting and evocative read.

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.