June.

Author: Madison Julius Cawein

             I.

    Hotly burns the amaryllis
     With its stars of red;
    Whitely rise the stately lilies
     From the lily bed;
    Withered shrinks the wax May-apple
     'Neath its parasol;
    Chilly dies the violet dapple
     In its earthly hall.


             II.

    March is but a blust'ring liar,
     April a sad love,
    May a milkmaid from the byre
     Flirting in the grove.
    June is rich in many blossoms,
     She's the one I'll woo;
    Health swells in her sunny bosoms,
     She's my sweetheart true.
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: The poem under examination employs the central theme of the transitory nature of seasons and life, drawing a parallel between the cycles of the natural world and the human emotional experience. This is conveyed through vivid, sensory imagery of flora, personified months, and the shifting seasons. The tone of the poem alternates between melancholic and optimistic, reflecting the changing seasons and the feelings they inspire.

The two-part structure of the poem gives it a balance, with the first part describing different flowers in various stages of life and death, and the second part personifying the months of spring and early summer. The poet uses a variety of literary devices to enrich the poem's imagery. Metaphors are employed to compare the months to human characters, such as March being a "blust'ring liar", and April a "sad love". This humanization of the months creates a more concrete, relatable image for the reader. Similes, such as the comparison of May to a flirtatious milkmaid, further this personification. The amaryllis burning hotly and the chilly death of the violet dapple are examples of the use of synesthesia, mixing senses to enhance the vividness of the images. The poem ends on a hopeful note, with the poet declaring his love for June, associating it with health, richness, and warmth. This conclusion ties together the themes of change, life, and love, leaving the reader with a sense of optimism and renewal.

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.