Love, The Song Of Songs

Author: Madison Julius Cawein

    Over the roar of cities,
    Over the hush of the hills,
    Mounts ever a song that never stops,
    A voice that never stills.

    Epic-loud as the sea is,
    Lyric-low as the dew,
    It sings and sings a soul into things
    And builds the world anew.

    Dauntless, deathless, stern but kind,
    Bold and free and strong,
    It sweeps with mastery man's mind,
    And rolls the world along.

    From soul to soul it wings its words,
    And, lo, the darkness flies;
    And all who heed that song of songs
    View Earth with other eyes.

    New eyes, new thoughts, that shall go on
    Seeing as Beauty sings,
    Until the light of the farthest dawn
    Shall fold its rainbow wings.
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Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

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Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: This poem is a profound meditation on the transformative and transcendent power of music or, more broadly, art, as a universal language. It explores themes of renewal, enlightenment, courage, strength and beauty. The tone is one of awe and reverence towards the "song," which is used metaphorically to signify the capacity of human creativity to instigate change and inspire.

Structurally, the poem's consistent four-line stanzas and regular rhyme scheme lend a rhythmic quality that mirrors its subject matter. The language is richly figurative, with imagery that contrasts the mundane ("the roar of cities," "the hush of the hills") with the extraordinary ("builds the world anew," "wings its words"). The repetition of "sings" and "song" throughout the poem underscores the central theme and mimics the relentless, ongoing nature of the song it describes.

The poem's tone is both grandiose and intimate, capturing the vast scope of its theme while also addressing the individual's experience. Phrases like "Epic-loud as the sea is, Lyric-low as the dew" encapsulate this duality. The poem concludes with a hopeful vision of universal enlightenment and harmony, evoked by the image of the dawn folding its "rainbow wings."

Overall, the poem is a celebration of the human spirit, presenting art as a vital force that has the power to reshape perceptions, transcend boundaries and bring about a more enlightened world.

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.