Bubbles

Author: Madison Julius Cawein

    As I went through the wood, the wood,
    Through fern and pimpernel,
    A water fell, a water stood,
    Twinkling within a dell,
    And Naiad fancies, gleaming, hung
    Like bubbles there the moss among.

    And as I sat beside the fall
    And watched a rainbow beam,
    There rose a dream, a spirit tall,
    Out of the woodland stream:
    Bright, prismed bubbles in her hair,
    She rose and smiled upon me there.

    But as I gazed at her and gazed,
    Dim bubbles grew her eyes;
    And frail of dyes her body raised,
    And'vanished in the skies:
    And with the spirit went my dream
    A rainbow bubble of the stream.
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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 a lush exploration of nature and the ephemeral, powered by rich imagery and a dreamlike tone. The poet uses the woodland setting, complete with a waterfall, ferns, and pimpernels to create an immersive environment that feels both tangible and ethereal. The structure of the poem, with its regular rhythm and rhyming scheme, further enhances this sense of dreamlike continuity and rhythm, echoing the cyclical patterns of nature itself.

The poem employs a narrative style, recounting an encounter with a 'spirit tall', a figure that seems to embody the beauty and transience of the woodland scene. The poet's use of color, notably in the 'rainbow beam' and 'prismed bubbles', adds to the enchanting, otherworldly atmosphere, while the recurring 'bubble' motif emphasizes the fleeting, delicate nature of the experience. The poem ends with a poignant reflection on the transient nature of beauty and dreams, as the spirit 'vanished in the skies', taking the poet's dream with it. This suggests a theme of transience and the inevitable passing of time, underpinning the overall message that beauty, while ephemeral, is worth cherishing and remembering.

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.