Heart's Encouragement.

By Madison Julius Cawein

Lyric Poem
Nor time nor all his minions Of sorrow or of pain, Shall dash with vulture pinions The cup she fills again Within the dream-dominions Of life where she doth reign. Clothed on with bright desire And hope that makes her strong, With limbs of frost and fire, She sits above all wrong, Her heart, a living lyre, Her love, its only song. And in the waking pauses Of weariness and care, And when the dark hour draws his Black weapon of despair, Above effects and causes We hear its music there. The longings life hath near it Of love we yearn to see; The dreams it doth inherit Of immortality; Are callings of her spirit To something yet to be.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem is a poignant exploration of the themes of hope, resilience, and the human capacity to dream. It presents an abstract, almost divine figure who seems to embody these qualities, thereby lending an air of reverence and awe to the overall tone of the piece. Throughout the poem, time and its "minions" such as sorrow and pain are positioned as adversaries, yet they are unable to "dash" the hope-filled "cup she fills again". This imagery imparts a sense of the enduring power of optimism and the human spirit.

The structure of the poem, which is rhythmic and consistent, underscores this sense of steadfastness. Literary devices such as metaphor and personification are used effectively to animate abstract concepts, making them more tangible and relatable. For instance, the figure’s heart is described as a "living lyre," suggesting it is a source of beautiful, life-affirming music that resounds even in the face of "weariness" and "despair". The poem concludes on a forward-looking note, with the "callings of her spirit" pointing towards the future and "something yet to be". This symbolizes the human propensity to always hope and dream of better things to come, making for a powerful and uplifting conclusion. In sum, this poem is a stirring tribute to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of hope and dreams to sustain us in the face of adversity.

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.