The Rainbow Of Promise

Author: Ella Wheeler Wilcox

    In the face of the sun are great thunderbolts hurled,
         And the storm-clouds have shut out its light;
    But a Rainbow of Promise now shines on the world,
         And the universe thrills at the sight.

    'Tis the flag of our Union, the red, white, and blue,
         Our Star-spangled Banner - our pride;
    Fair symbol of all that is noble and true,
         Flung out over continents wide.

    Flung out in its glory o'er land and o'er sea,
         With a message from God in each star;
    And a glorious promise of peace yet to be
         In the fluttering folds of each bar.

    A Rainbow of Promise, bright emblem of hope,
         Fair flag of each cause that is just;
    No longer in doubt or in darkness we grope - 
         In the Star-spangled Banner we trust.
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Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

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Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: The poem uses vivid and grandiose imagery to express a profound sense of national pride and optimism. The sun, thunderbolts, storm-clouds, and rainbow all serve as metaphors for the trials, tribulations, and ultimate triumphs of the nation, in this case, symbolized by the Star-spangled Banner. The rainbow, in particular, is a potent symbol of hope, promise, and peace, evoking the Biblical story of Noah's Ark, thus infusing the poem with a sense of divine approval and destiny.

The poem's structure, comprised of four quatrains with a consistent AABB rhyme scheme, provides a rhythmic and melodic quality that complements its uplifting and celebratory tone. A noteworthy literary device used is personification, as seen in "the universe thrills at the sight," which amplifies the significance of the flag and the promise it holds. The repeated references to light and darkness also create a powerful contrast, underscoring the theme of emerging from trials into a hopeful future. Overall, the poem serves as a heartfelt paean to resilience, unity, and the enduring power of hope.

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.