For The Old

Author: Madison Julius Cawein

    These are the things I pray Heaven send us still,
    To blow the ashes of the years away,
    Or keep aglow forever 'neath their gray
    The fire that warms when Life's old house grows chill:
    First Faith, that gazed into our youth's bright eyes;
    Courage, that helped us onward, rain or sun;
    Then Hope, who captained all our deeds well done;
    And, last, the dream of Love that never dies.
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Type of Poem: Sonnet

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 beautifully encapsulates the universal human hope and desire for enduring values that can withstand the passage of time. The poet prays for the lasting gifts of faith, courage, hope and love, using them as metaphors for the important elements that comprise a fulfilling life. The poet's choice of these four virtues is notable, as they serve as cornerstones of emotional resilience and spiritual sustenance.

The poem's tone is both reverent and hopeful, reflecting the poet's enduring optimism in the face of life's inevitable trials. There's a sense of longing for the simplicity and purity of youth, exemplified by the imagery of a fire glowing in life's "old house", representing the enduring spirit of the human heart. The structure of the poem, organized by the virtues the speaker prays for, gives it a rhythmic and systematic nature, mirroring the consistent and unwavering nature of these virtues.

The poet uses vivid metaphors and personification to bring these abstract concepts to life. For instance, "Hope" is described as a captain, suggesting leadership and guidance. The use of "ashes" to depict the passage of time is a powerful metaphor, creating a sense of fragility and transience. This poem serves as a gentle reminder of the enduring importance of faith, courage, hope, and love in navigating the journey of life.

Understanding the Sonnet

The sonnet is one of the most enduring and celebrated forms of poetry, known for its strict structure and profound themes. With a history spanning centuries, sonnets have been used to explore love, beauty, politics, and mortality, all within the confines of just 14 lines.

Sonnets are characterized by their precise form and rhyme scheme, which vary depending on the type of sonnet. Here’s a closer look:

  • Shakespearean (English) Sonnet: Composed of three quatrains followed by a final couplet, with a rhyme scheme of ABABCDCDEFEFGG. This form often builds a complex argument or narrative, culminating in a powerful closing statement.
  • Petrarchan (Italian) Sonnet: Divided into an octave (eight lines) and a sestet (six lines), with a typical rhyme scheme of ABBAABBA for the octave, followed by various patterns in the sestet such as CDECDE or CDCDCD. The octave usually presents a problem, with the sestet providing a resolution.
  • Meter: Sonnets are traditionally written in iambic pentameter, which gives the poem a rhythmic and melodic quality that enhances its emotional impact.

The sonnet’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to condense complex emotions and ideas into a small but potent package, making it a favorite form for poets seeking to explore profound themes with precision and elegance.