Clairvoyance

By Madison Julius Cawein

Lyric Poem
The sunlight that makes of the heaven A pathway for sylphids to throng; The wind that makes harps of the forests For spirits to smite into song, Are the image and voice of a vision That comforts my heart and makes strong. I look in one's face, and the shadows Are lifted: and, lo, I can see, Through windows of evident being, That open on eternity, The form of the essence of Beauty God clothes with His own mystery. I lean to one's voice, and the wrangle Of living hath pause: and I hear Through doors of invisible spirit, That open on light that is clear, The radiant raiment of Music In the hush of the heavens sweep near.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem employs a rich use of imagery and metaphors to explore themes of nature, spirituality, comfort, and beauty. The poet illustrates the sun's rays as a pathway for ethereal beings, and the wind as a musical instrument for spirits, creating a tone that is both mystical and serene. These metaphors serve to elevate nature beyond its physical realm, positioning it as a conduit for spiritual experiences and comfort.

The second half of the poem shifts the focus from the natural world to a human subject. The speaker finds solace and enlightenment in the face and voice of this person, reinforcing the theme of comfort found earlier in the poem. This shift also highlights the transformative power of beauty, as the speaker is able to perceive the divine through this person, thus blurring the lines between the earthly and the divine.

The poem's structure is consistent, with each stanza mirroring the other in form and rhythm, creating a sense of balance. This symmetry mirrors the poem’s exploration of balance between the natural and spiritual, the earthly and the divine. In terms of literary devices, personification is used to animate the sun and wind, while metaphors are used to convey the spiritual dimension of the person the speaker addresses. The use of the phrase "invisible spirit" contributes to the poem's transcendent tone. Ultimately, the poem evokes a sense of calm and reverence through its imagery and themes, while its structure underscores its balanced and meditative nature.

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.