East to West

By Algernon Charles Swinburne

Lyric Poem
    Sunset smiles on sunrise: east and west are one,     Face to face in heaven before the sovereign sun.     From the springs of the dawn everlasting a glory renews and transfigures the west,     From the depths of the sunset a light as of morning enkindles the broad sea's breast,     And the lands and the skies and the waters are glad of the day's and the night's work done.     Child of dawn, and regent on the world-wide sea,     England smiles on Europe, fair as dawn and free.     Not the waters that gird her are purer, nor mightier the winds that her waters know.     But America, daughter and sister of England, is praised of them, far as they flow:     Atlantic responds to Pacific the praise of her days that have been and shall be.     So from England westward let the watchword fly,     So for England eastward let the seas reply;     Praise, honour, and love everlasting be sent on the wind's wings, westward and east,     That the pride of the past and the pride of the future may mingle as friends at feast,     And the sons of the lords of the world-wide seas be one till the world's life die.

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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 profound reflection on unity, time, and national identity, utilizing the motifs of natural elements to express these themes. The juxtaposition of sunset and sunrise in the opening lines establishes a cyclical sense of time, highlighting the enduring nature of these phenomena and suggesting a parallel with the enduring relationships between nations. Notably, the poem presents an idealized vision of international harmony, particularly between England, Europe, and America, which is depicted as a familial bond.

The poem's tone is both celebratory and reverent, evoking a sense of pride in national heritage and optimism for future unity. The structure of the poem, filled with elaborate lines and punctuated by the recurring motif of the "world-wide sea," suggests a rhythm akin to the ebb and flow of tides, further emphasizing the overall theme of unity and continuity. The use of personification, such as "Sunset smiles on sunrise" and "England smiles on Europe," lends a sense of grandeur and benevolence to these entities. The poem's concluding line reinforces the hope for unity "till the world's life die," underscoring the lasting nature of these relationships in the face of time's passage. The poet's use of these literary devices, combined with the thematic focus on unity and time, results in a stirring and evocative exploration of national identity and global harmony.

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.