A Clasp of Hands

This poem is a rich exploration of the power and innocence of a newborn, employing a blend of romantic imagery and a hint of irony to depict the profound influence of such a small, delicate creature. The poet adopts a tender tone, conveying a sense of awe and reverence towards the baby, a sentiment supported by frequent religious references such as "heavenly heat," "heaven's own bowers," and "Paradise."

The structure is consistent across the three stanzas, each one culminating in a repeated line that reinforces the central theme. Notably, the repetition of "soft, small, and sweet," "velvet vice," and "flower-soft fists" in the beginning and end of each stanza serves to emphasize the duality of the baby's nature: innocent yet powerful, gentle yet imposing.

The use of imagery and metaphor is striking. The baby is likened to a blooming flower, a metaphor that conveys purity and natural beauty. Yet, the poet also employs contrasting metaphors such as "a velvet vice with springs of steel," and "Two flower-soft fists of conquering clutch," implying an underlying strength and dominance. The baby's hands, typically associated with vulnerability, are depicted as weapons, an unexpected twist that enriches the poem's complexity.

The poem therefore reflects on the paradoxical nature of infancy, weaving together themes of innocence, power, and the transformative impact of parenthood. The poet manages to capture the universal experience of beholding a newborn's delicate beauty while also acknowledging the profound change this tiny being brings about.