Music And Sleep.

Author: Madison Julius Cawein


These have a life that hath no part in death;
 These circumscribe the soul and make it strong;
 Between the breathing of a dream and song,
 Building a world of beauty in a breath.
 Unto the heart the voice of this one saith
 Ideals, its emotions live among;
 Unto the mind the other speaks a tongue
 Of visions, where the guess, we christen faith,
 May face the fact of immortality
 As may a rose its unembodied scent,
 Or star its own reflected radiance.
 We do not know these save unconsciously.
 To whose mysterious shadows God hath lent
 No certain shape, no certain countenance.

Type of Poem: Sonnet

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

Publisher:

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: This poem delves into themes of life, death, the soul's resilience, and the intangible aspects of existence. The author uses vivid imagery and metaphors, painting a picture of the soul transcending mortality, of dreams and songs creating beauty, and of the power of faith and ideals. The tone is reflective and introspective, filled with a quiet wonder that pushes the reader to ponder the mysteries of life.

The structure of the poem, consistent in its rhymed verse, contributes to the poem's contemplative nature. The poet's use of personification, specifically with the abstract ideas of immortality, faith, and ideals, further emphasizes the poem's exploration of life's complexities. The poem refers to the elusive nature of understanding these concepts, suggesting that they are perceived unconsciously. The final lines, which speak to the undefined and mysterious nature of divine presence, encapsulate the poem's overall theme of the enigmatic and profound aspects of existence. Overall, this poem is a rich exploration of life's intangible elements, prompting the reader to ponder existence beyond the physical realm.

Understanding the Sonnet

The sonnet is one of the most enduring and celebrated forms of poetry, known for its strict structure and profound themes. With a history spanning centuries, sonnets have been used to explore love, beauty, politics, and mortality, all within the confines of just 14 lines.


Sonnets are characterized by their precise form and rhyme scheme, which vary depending on the type of sonnet. Here’s a closer look:

  • Shakespearean (English) Sonnet: Composed of three quatrains followed by a final couplet, with a rhyme scheme of ABABCDCDEFEFGG. This form often builds a complex argument or narrative, culminating in a powerful closing statement.
  • Petrarchan (Italian) Sonnet: Divided into an octave (eight lines) and a sestet (six lines), with a typical rhyme scheme of ABBAABBA for the octave, followed by various patterns in the sestet such as CDECDE or CDCDCD. The octave usually presents a problem, with the sestet providing a resolution.
  • Meter: Sonnets are traditionally written in iambic pentameter, which gives the poem a rhythmic and melodic quality that enhances its emotional impact.

The sonnet’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to condense complex emotions and ideas into a small but potent package, making it a favorite form for poets seeking to explore profound themes with precision and elegance.