Encouragement

By Madison Julius Cawein

Lyric Poem
To help our tired hope to toil, Lo! have we not the council here Of trees, that to all hope appear As sermons of the soil? To help our flagging faith to rise, Lo! have we not the high advice Of stars, that for all faith suffice As gospels of the skies? Sustain us, Lord! and help us climb, With hope and faith made strong and great, The rock-rough pathway of our fate, The care-dark way of time!

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
The poem is a profound exploration of the themes of hope, faith, and divine guidance, all set against the backdrop of nature. The piece is imbued with a sense of spiritual longing that is mirrored in the natural world, painting a vivid picture of inner struggle and prayer. The tone is reflective and passionate, and the reader cannot help but feel the sincerity of the speaker's plea for divine intervention.

The structure of the poem, with its repetitive refrains, contributes to a rhythmic, hymn-like quality that enhances its spiritual theme. The use of nature as a metaphor for spiritual truths – trees as 'sermons of the soil' and stars as 'gospels of the skies' – is a powerful literary device employed by the poet. These metaphors not only create striking images but also underscore the poem's theme of seeking divine wisdom and guidance. Meanwhile, the poem's concluding image of the 'rock-rough pathway' and 'care-dark way of time' provides a potent symbol for life's challenges and the need for hope and faith to navigate them. Overall, the poem is a poignant meditation on spiritual endurance, offering a deep and thoughtful exploration of human resilience in the face of life's trials.

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.