Failure

Author: Madison Julius Cawein

    No ray, no will-o'-wisp, no firefly gleam;
    Nothing but night around
    The only sound the sobbing of a stream
    Within the hush profound.

    Then suddenly the chanting of a bird,
    Plaintive, appealing, far
    And in my heart the murmur of a word,
    And high in heaven a star.

    A star, that shone out suddenly and seemed
    A herald of the light,
    The dawn, that cried within me, "Lo! you dreamed
    That 'twould be always night!

    "If night be here, dawn is not far away,
    However dark the sky.
    And in the heart whatever doubts betray,
    Faith still stands smiling by.

    "Put trust in God, and hold to your one aim.
    And though it is to be
    Failure at last, then let it seem the same
    As victory."
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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 presents a compelling exploration of themes such as hope, faith, and resilience amidst despair. It opens with a vivid portrayal of darkness, symbolizing despair or uncertainty which is manifested through the lack of light sources and the "sobbing" stream's sound. Such auditory imagery enhances the melancholic tone, creating a sense of desolation. The structure is consistent, with the poem divided into stanzas of four lines each, maintaining a smooth rhythm and flow.

The tone shifts with the introduction of the bird's chant, symbolizing a ray of hope or a sudden realization. The "murmur of a word" denotes internal reflection or an idea, further emphasized by the presence of a star, symbolizing guidance or illumination. The poem eloquently uses these natural elements as metaphors, enhancing its overall appeal. The poem's concluding lines emphasize faith in God and persistence, irrespective of success or failure. This message is delivered through a direct address to the reader, enhancing the poem's personal and motivational tone. The poem effectively uses binary oppositions such as light/dark, hope/despair, and failure/victory to create a dramatic contrast, capturing the reader's attention.

In conclusion, the poem is a beautiful blend of natural imagery, metaphor, and emotive language, conveying the message that even in the darkest times, hope and faith can guide one towards resilience and courage. Its rhythmic structure and shifts in tone, along with its powerful thematic exploration, make it an intriguing piece of poetry.

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.