A March Snow

By Ella Wheeler Wilcox

Lyric Poem
    Let the old snow be covered with the new:         The trampled snow, so soiled, and stained, and sodden.     Let it be hidden wholly from our view         By pure white flakes, all trackless and untrodden.     When Winter dies, low at the sweet Spring's feet,     Let him be mantled in a clean, white sheet.     Let the old life be covered by the new:         The old past life so full of sad mistakes,     Let it be wholly hidden from the view         By deeds as white and silent as snow-flakes.     Ere this earth life melts in the eternal Spring     Let the white mantle of repentance, fling     Soft drapery about it, fold on fold,     Even as the new snow covers up the old.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem addresses the themes of renewal, repentance, and the cyclical nature of life. The poet uses the metaphor of the changing seasons, specifically the transition from winter to spring, to explore these ideas. The old, trampled snow, symbolic of past mistakes and regrets, is concealed by fresh, unspoiled snow, signifying a chance for new beginnings.

The poet's tone is hopeful, yet reflective, suggesting a deep understanding of human failings alongside the potential for redemption. The structure of the poem, featuring mirrored stanzas, reinforces this theme of cyclicality and transformation; the first stanza discussing the changing seasons and the second applying these concepts to human life.

The poem also makes effective use of visual imagery and contrasts, the 'soiled, stained, and sodden' snow against the 'pure white flakes', to underscore its message. The phrase 'white mantle of repentance' stands out as a particularly evocative metaphor, suggesting a protective and purifying layer that can render past mistakes invisible and irrelevant. Overall, this poem serves as a poignant reminder of the potential for renewal inherent in both nature and human life.

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.