A Threnody

By Madison Julius Cawein

Lyric Poem
I. The rainy smell of a ferny dell, Whose shadow no sunray flaws, When Autumn sits in the wayside weeds Telling her beads Of haws. II. The phantom mist, that is moonbeam-kissed, On hills where the trees are thinned, When Autumn leans at the oak-root's scarp, Playing a harp Of wind. III. The crickets' chirr 'neath brier and burr, By leaf-strewn pools and streams, When Autumn stands 'mid the dropping nuts, With the book, she shuts, Of dreams. IV. The gray "alas" of the days that pass, And the hope that says "adieu," A parting sorrow, a shriveled flower, And one ghost's hour With you.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem is a beautiful and evocative exploration of the season of Autumn. Its theme centers around the melancholy beauty, transience, and inevitable decay that comes with this time of the year, offering a vivid, sensory-rich portrait of the season. The poet uses a variety of literary devices, including rich imagery, personification, and metaphor, to bring to life the myriad nuances of Autumn.

The structure of the poem, divided into four stanzas, seems to follow the progression of Autumn itself, from its inception to its end. Each verse presents a different aspect of the season, starting from the "rainy smell of a ferny dell" in the first stanza to "The gray 'alas' of the days that pass" in the final one. The poet's use of personification is particularly striking, as Autumn is depicted as a mysterious, almost spiritual figure who partakes in various activities like "telling her beads of haws," "playing a harp of wind," and closing "the book of dreams."

The tone of the poem is contemplative and slightly melancholic, mirroring the mood often associated with Autumn. The poet's use of language further enhances this, with phrases like "phantom mist," "gray alas," and "ghost's hour," creating an atmosphere of melancholy and introspection. Overall, the poem is a poignant reflection on the ephemeral nature of life, the beauty in decay, and the cyclical nature of existence.

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.