Indifference

Author: Madison Julius Cawein

She is so dear the wildflowers near
 Each path she passes by,
 Are over fain to kiss again
 Her feet and then to die.

 She is so fair the wild birds there
 That sing upon the bough,
 Have learned the staff of her sweet laugh,
 And sing no other now.

 Alas! that she should never see,
 Should never care to know,
 The wildflower's love, the bird's above,
 And his, who loves her so!
Send via Email Share via WhatsApp Share on X

Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

Publisher:

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: This is a poignant love poem that portrays the intensity of a lover's affection for his beloved. The theme of unrequited love is expressed through the vivid personification of nature. The poet uses wildflowers and birds as metaphors to illustrate his own feelings, suggesting that nature itself is charmed by the woman, even to the point of death, as indicated by the words "to kiss again / Her feet and then to die". The tone is one of melancholy and longing, with an undercurrent of frustration as expressed in the phrase, "Alas! that she should never see".

The structure of the poem consists of three quatrains, each following a consistent rhyme scheme. The first two quatrains establish the woman’s allure, while the final quatrain reveals the speaker’s lament. The repetition of "She is so…" at the beginning of the first two quatrains provides a rhythmic regularity and reinforces the speaker's fascination. The use of archaic language such as 'fain' and 'Alas' adds a timeless, classic quality to the poem. This is a delicate and evocative exploration of unreciprocated love, where the speaker's feelings are as true and persistent as the natural world around him.

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.