Author: Madison Julius Cawein
I Sing, Hey, when the time rolls round this way, And the bells peal out, 'Tis Christmas Day; The world is better then by half, For joy, for joy; In a little while you will see it laugh-- For a song's to sing and a glass to quaff, My boy, my boy. So here's to the man who never says nay!-- Sing, Hey, a song of Christmas-Day! II Sing, Ho, when roofs are white with snow, And homes are hung with mistletoe; Old Earth is not half bad, I wis-- What cheer! what cheer! How it ever seemed sad the wonder is-- With a gift to give and a girl to kiss, My dear, my dear. So here's to the girl who never says no! Sing, Ho, a song of the mistletoe! III No thing in the world to the heart seems wrong When the soul of a man walks out with song; Wherever they go, glad hand in hand, And glove in glove, The round of the land is rainbow-spanned, And the meaning of life they understand Is love, is love. Let the heart be open, the soul be strong, And life will be glad as a Christmas song.
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, structured in three distinct stanzas, is a jubilant celebration of the Christmas season and the joy it brings. The recurring theme is the power of positivity, love, and goodwill to transform our perception of the world. The poet uses the Christmas season as a symbol of these virtues, emphasizing the merry atmosphere and the sharing of affection.
The tone of the poem is bright and optimistic, reflecting the spirit of the holiday season. The poet makes use of repetition and rhyme to create a rhythmic, song-like quality that enhances the festive mood of the piece. The use of direct address ('my boy', 'my dear'), makes the poem feel more personal and intimate, as if the poet is sharing a joyful secret.
In terms of literary devices, the poet employs vivid imagery ('roofs are white with snow', 'round of the land is rainbow-spanned') to paint an idyllic picture of the holiday season. Simultaneously, the personification of Earth as 'not half bad' and capable of seeming 'sad' adds depth to the poem, suggesting that our reality is shaped by our attitudes and emotions.
In the final stanza, the poem culminates in the assertion that love is the meaning of life, and that openness and strength of soul can make life a joyful song. This serves as a poignant reminder to cherish the simple joys in life, especially love and companionship. Overall, this is a heartwarming and uplifting poem that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the Christmas season.
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:
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.