Bleak Weather.

Author: Ella Wheeler Wilcox

             Dear Love, where the red lilies blossomed and grew
         The white snows are falling;
             And all through the woods where I wandered with you
         The loud winds are calling;
             And the robin that piped to us tune upon tune,
         Neath the oak, you remember,
             O'er hill-top and forest has followed the June
         And left us December.

             He has left like a friend who is true in the sun
         And false in the shadows;
             He has found new delights in the land where he's gone,
         Greener woodlands and meadows.
             Let him go! what care we? let the snow shroud the lea,
         Let it drift on the heather;
             We can sing through it all: I have you, you have me.
         And we'll laugh at the weather.

             The old year may die and a new year be born
         That is bleaker and colder:
             It cannot dismay us; we dare it, we scorn,
         For our love makes us bolder.
             Ah, Robin! sing loud on your far distant lea,
         You friend in fair weather!
             But here is a song sung that's fuller of glee,
         By two warm hearts together.
Send via Email Share via WhatsApp Share on X

Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

Publisher:

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: This poem beautifully explores themes of love, nature, and the passage of time. The romantic relationship is personified as an enduring strength, capable of withstanding the changing seasons symbolized by the red lilies and white snows, the calling winds, and the migrating robin. The natural world is used as a backdrop to this relationship, reflecting the changes and challenges that occur within it. The robin is particularly noteworthy, acting as a symbol of fair-weather friendship and transient joy, contrasted with the dependable, steadfast love between the poem's subjects.

The tone of the poem is one of resilience and defiant joy, particularly in the face of hardship. Despite the harsh weather and the departure of the robin—representative of fair-weather friends—the two lovers find contentment in each other's company, their love providing warmth and laughter. Structurally, the poem is consistent, maintaining an even rhythm and rhyme scheme throughout, which mirrors the unwavering strength of the relationship it celebrates. A standout literary device is the use of personification, notably in regards to the robin and the weather, which accentuates the emotional depth of the poem and the dichotomy between fleeting and enduring connections. Overall, this poem is a touching tribute to the power of love to endure through life's seasons.

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.