A Moss-Rose

By Algernon Charles Swinburne

Lyric Poem
    If the rose of all flowers be the rarest     That heaven may adore from above,     And the fervent moss-rose be the fairest     That sweetens the summer with love,     Can it be that a fairer than any     Should blossom afar from the tree?     Yet one, and a symbol of many,     Shone sudden for eyes that could see.     In the grime and the gloom of November     The bliss and the bloom of July     Bade autumn rejoice and remember     The balm of the blossoms gone by.     Would you know what moss-rose now it may be     That puts all the rest to the blush,     The flower was the face of a baby,     The moss was a bonnet of plush.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem effectively uses the metaphor of a flower, specifically a moss-rose, to symbolize the purity and beauty of a baby's face. The poet contrasts the harshness of November with the warmth and vitality of July, suggesting the rejuvenating, life-affirming impact of a child's innocence and charm. The theme of renewal and continuity is strong, as the imagery of blossoms in July is evoked in grim November, underscoring the transformative influence of love and innocence.

The poem’s tone is celebratory and reverential, with the baby's face being valued above the rarest of roses. This appreciation is communicated through the use of hyperbole and comparison. Structurally, the poem follows consistent rhyming pattern, which provides a rhythmic flow to the verses. The poem's language is rich and evocative, using descriptive adjectives and vivid imagery to present the contrasting scenes of November and July, and the surprising emergence of beauty in the midst of gloom. The final lines reveal the metaphor, giving a delightful twist to the reader's understanding. Overall, the poem is a beautiful ode to innocence, love, and the surprising emergence of beauty in unexpected places.

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.