A Stormy Sunset.

Author: Madison Julius Cawein

    1

    Soul of my body! what a death
    For such a day of envious gloom,
    Unbroken passion of the sky!
    As if the pure, kind-hearted breath
    Of some soft power, ever nigh,
    Had, cleaving in the bitter sheath,
    Burst from its grave a gorgeous bloom.


    2

    The majesty of clouds that swarm.
    Expanding in a furious length
    Of molten-metal petals, flows
    Unutterable, and where the warm,
    Full fire is centered, swims and glows
    The evening star fresh-faced with strength,
    A shimmering rain-drop of the storm.
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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 marked by its vivid imagery and profound exploration of life and death, as well as the cyclical nature of existence. The speaker addresses their soul as a separate entity, expressing an existential tension that creates an intimate, introspective tone. The first stanza reads like a lamentation over a perceived death, yet it ends with the image of a "gorgeous bloom" bursting from its grave, suggesting rebirth or rejuvenation.

In the second stanza, the poem's imagery grows more tumultuous and grand, depicting clouds as "molten-metal petals" that expand furiously. This evokes the sublime power of nature, a recurring motif in Romantic literature, and suggests a chaotic, violent beauty. The evening star, "fresh-faced with strength," emerges from this turmoil, symbolizing resilience and perhaps hinting at the soul's capacity to endure and regenerate amidst adversity.

The poem’s structure, consisting of two stanzas, reflects its thematic dichotomy: death and life, destruction and rebirth, gloom and brightness. The language is rich and evocative, using metaphors and similes to create a vivid sense of the natural world imbued with deep, spiritual significance. All these elements converge to create a poem that is emotionally resonant and thought-provoking, inviting readers to reflect on the cyclical nature of existence and the enduring strength of the soul.

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.