Meeting In Summer

By Madison Julius Cawein

Lyric Poem
    A tranquil bar     Of rosy twilight under dusk's first star.     A glimmering sound     Of whispering waters over grassy ground.     A sun-sweet smell     Of fresh-reaped hay from dewy field and dell.     A lazy breeze     Jostling the ripeness from the apple-trees.     A vibrant cry,     Passing, then gone, of bullbats in the sky.     And faintly now     The katydid upon the shadowy bough.     And far-off then     The little owl within the lonely glen.     And soon, full soon,     The silvery arrival of the moon.     And, to your door,     The path of roses I have trod before.     And, sweetheart, you!     Among the roses and the moonlit dew.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem is a delicate and richly evocative exploration of nature, sensory experiences, and romantic longing. The poet skillfully employs a soft, gentle tone to create a vivid picture of a serene evening, using tangible sensory imagery to immerse the reader in a tranquil, bucolic setting. The narrative is structured as a series of snapshots, each one a distinct sensory experience, which not only allows the reader to form a clear mental image of the scene, but also evokes the sense of a slow, lazy passage of time.

The poem's themes include nature, tranquility, and romance. The recurring use of nature-based imagery and sounds ("rosy twilight," "whispering waters," "fresh-reaped hay," "katydid upon the shadowy bough") helps to underscore the theme of nature and its inherent tranquility. The final two stanzas shift focus towards romantic longing, subtly hinted at earlier in the poem, culminating in a heartfelt confession of love. This shift is handled with great finesse, preventing the change in mood from jarring the reader. Notably, the poet uses a consistent rhyming scheme, which lends a melodic quality to the poem, enhancing its soothing, romantic tone. The poem stands out for its ability to transport readers to a serene, romantic landscape using evocative sensory imagery and a gentle, warm tone.

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.