In Winter

By Madison Julius Cawein

Ballad
I. When black frosts pluck the acorns down, And in the lane the waters freeze; And 'thwart red skies the wild-fowl flies, And death sits grimly 'mid the trees; When home-lights glitter in the brown Of dusk like shaggy eyes, - Before the door his feet, sweetheart, And two white arms that greet, sweetheart,     And two white arms that greet. II. When ways are drifted with the leaves, And winds make music in the thorns; And lone and lost above the frost The new moon shows its silver horns; When underneath the lamp-lit eaves The opened door is crossed, - A happy heart and light, sweetheart, And lips to kiss good-night, sweetheart,     And lips to kiss good-night.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem beautifully captures the essence of a rural, frigid setting and the warmth of love and home. The author contrasts the harshness of the natural world with the comfort and safety of human connection, a common theme in romantic-era literature. The frost, the freezing waters, and the grim death imagery are offset by the glittering home-lights, the welcoming arms, and the happiness of a loving heart. This juxtaposition creates a poignant contrast between the inhospitable outside world and the inviting warmth of home and love.

The structure of the poem further enhances its themes. Each stanza begins with vivid imagery of the cold, harsh environment, then transitions into the warmth of human connection. This pattern underscores the dichotomy the author is portraying. The repetition of phrases at the end of each stanza ("two white arms that greet, sweetheart," "lips to kiss good-night, sweetheart") adds a rhythmic, song-like quality to the poem, reinforcing the comforting and familiar aspects of the home. The language is richly descriptive, with phrases like "black frosts pluck the acorns down," and "wild-fowl flies 'thwart red skies," which create a vivid, sensory experience for the reader. Overall, the poem is a beautifully crafted piece that balances stark natural imagery with a deep sense of warmth and belonging.

Understanding Ballads

A ballad is a form of verse, often a narrative set to music, that has been a cornerstone of storytelling across various cultures. Traditionally passed down orally, ballads are known for their rhythmic structure and often tell tales of love, adventure, and heroism.

Ballads are characterized by their strong rhythm and repetition, making them both memorable and engaging. Here are some defining features:

  • Narrative Structure: Ballads typically tell a story, often a dramatic or emotional tale that unfolds in a straightforward, chronological order.
  • Quatrain Stanzas: Most ballads are composed of quatrains (four-line stanzas) with a rhyme scheme of ABAB or ABCB, which adds to the musicality of the verse.
  • Repetition: Refrains or repeated lines are common in ballads, helping to emphasize key themes or emotions and making the ballad easier to remember.
  • Oral Tradition: Many ballads originated from oral traditions, which means they were passed down through generations by word of mouth before being written down.

From medieval minstrels to contemporary songwriters, ballads have continued to evolve, remaining a beloved form of expression that captures the human experience in a way that is both poetic and accessible.