Elfin

By Madison Julius Cawein

Lyric Poem
I.     When wildflower blue and wildflower white     The wildflowers lay their heads together,     And the moon-moth glimmers along the night,     And the wandering firefly flares its light,     And the full moon rises broad and bright,     Then, then it is elfin weather. II.     And fern and flower on top of the hill     Are a fairy wood where the fairies camp;     And there, to the pipe of the cricket shrill,     And the owl's bassoon or the whippoorwill,     They whirl their wildest and trip their fill     By the light of the glowworm's lamp. III.     And the green tree-toad and the katydid     Are the henchmen set to guard their dance;     At whose cry they creep 'neath the dewy lid     Of a violet's eye, or close lie hid     In a bluebell's ear, if a mortal 'mid     The moonlit woods should chance. IV.     And the forest-fly with its gossamer wings,     And filmy body of rainbow dye,     Is the ouphen steed each elfin brings,     Whereon by the light of the stars he swings,     When the dance is done and the barn-cock sings,     And the dim dawn streaks the sky.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This magical and vivid poem seems to transport the reader into a dreamlike, ethereal realm. Themes of nature and folklore are woven intricately throughout the verses. The poem utilizes a rich, detailed tapestry of imagery, painting a picture of an enchanting, nocturnal world where nature and fairy tales intertwine. The poet's use of language channels the whimsy of a midsummer night, filled with wildflowers, moonlight, and creatures of the night, creating an atmosphere of magical realism.

The tone of the poem is light, playful, and enchanting, filled with a sense of wonder and mystery. The structure of the piece, divided into four stanzas, allows the narrative to unfold in a rhythmic and lyrical flow. The poet's use of alliteration and rhyme gives the poem a musical quality, mirroring the song and dance of the ethereal beings it describes. Literary devices such as personification and vivid metaphorical language help to elevate the narrative, bringing the forest and its magical inhabitants to life. The poem, in essence, is a celebration of the natural world and the enchanting mysteries it holds, encouraging the reader to look closer and find magic in the mundane.

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.