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By Madison Julius Cawein

Among the fields the camomile Seems blown steam in the lightning's glare. Unusual odors drench the air. Night speaks above; the angry smile Of storm within her stare. The way for me to-night? To-night, Is through the wood whose branches fill The road with dripping rain-drops. Till, Between the boughs, a star-like light Our home upon the hill. The path for me to take? It goes Around a trailer-tangled rock, 'Mid puckered pink and hollyhock, Unto a latch-gate's unkempt rose, And door whereat I knock. Bright on the old-time flower-place The lamp streams through the foggy pane. The door is opened to the rain; And in the door, her happy face, And eager hands again.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Analysis & Notes:
This poem captures a journey through a stormy night, filled with natural imagery and a sense of longing that culminates in a reunion. The recurring theme is the relationship between man and nature, highlighted by the speaker's navigation through the tumultuous weather to reach a warm, welcoming home. The storm, represented by vivid images such as "blown steam in the lightning's glare" and "the angry smile of storm," sets a suspenseful, ominous tone that contrasts sharply with the comforting ending.

The poem's structure is well-paced, leading the reader through the journey with the speaker. The narrative advances through each stanza, building anticipation and a sense of determination. The use of questions in the second and third stanzas further reflects the speaker's introspection and decision-making process. Literary devices such as metaphor, personification, and vivid imagery contribute to the poem's emotional depth and visual appeal. For instance, the home is described as a "star-like light," symbolizing hope and guidance amidst the storm. The final stanza presents a poignant resolution, with the "happy face" and "eager hands" symbolizing warmth, love, and homecoming. This shift in tone from the earlier stanzas underscores the poem's exploration of perseverance, hope, and the power of human connection.

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.