Interpreted

By Madison Julius Cawein

Lyric Poem
What magic shall solve us the secret Of beauty that's born for an hour? That gleams like the flight of an egret, Or burns like the scent of a flower,      With death for a dower? What leaps in the bosk but a satyr? What pipes on the wind but a faun? Or laughs in the waters that scatter, But limbs of a nymph who is gone,      When we walk in the dawn? What sings on the hills but a fairy? Or sighs in the fields but a sprite? What breathes through the leaves but the airy Soft spirits of shadow and light,      When we walk in the night? Behold how the world-heart is eager To draw us and hold us and claim! Through truths of the dreams that beleaguer Her soul she makes ours the same,      And death but a name.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
The poem presents a profound exploration of the transient nature of beauty, the enchantment of nature, and the thin veil between the mortal and the ethereal. The recurring theme of ephemeral beauty is skillfully contrasted against death, bringing a sense of melancholy and existential rumination. This dichotomy is encapsulated in the lines, "Of beauty that's born for an hour?...With death for a dower?"

The poem heavily employs mythological allusions to satyrs, fauns, nymphs, and fairies, creating an ambiance of mystical wonder and supernatural charm. The use of these figures also enables the poet to imbue the natural world with a sense of life and consciousness, further enhancing the theme of human connection to nature. The structure of the poem, with its consistent rhyme scheme and rhythm, lends a sing-song quality that complements the fairy-tale-like narrative.

The poet's use of personification and vivid imagery enhances the ethereal atmosphere, such as in the lines, "What breathes through the leaves but the airy... Soft spirits of shadow and light." The final stanza offers a poignant conclusion, suggesting that through the truths of dreams, mortality is but a name. This invites contemplation on the power of imagination and the human capacity to transcend the bounds of the physical world. Overall, the poem is a beautifully crafted ode to the fleeting beauty of life, the allure of nature, and the mystery of existence.

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.