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Author: Gilbert Keith Chesterton

    The vision of a haloed host
    That weep around an empty throne;
    And, aureoles dark and angels dead,
    Man with his own life stands alone.

    'I am,' he says his bankrupt creed:
    'I am,' and is again a clod:
    The sparrow starts, the grasses stir,
    For he has said the name of God.
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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: This poem reveals a profound exploration of spirituality, the human condition, and the relationship between man and the divine. The opening imagery of a haloed host weeping around an empty throne confronts themes of desolation and divine absence, accentuated through the jarring portrait of "aureoles dark and angels dead". This can be interpreted as a critique or questioning of religious faith, or alternatively, as a commentary on mankind's feelings of loneliness and solitude in the universe.

The second half of the poem shifts focus to the human being, who declares his existence with "I am". This phrase repeated twice commands a sense of self-affirmation, an existential claim, and at the same time echoes the Biblical name for God, merging the human and the divine. Yet it is followed by the sobering line "and is again a clod", suggesting the transience and insignificance of human life. The final lines depict nature's reaction to man's declaration, the sparrow starts, the grasses stir, implying a unity of life, or that man's existence is validated and recognized by nature itself. Overall, the poem operates in a realm of existentialism and spirituality, with a contemplative tone that provokes reflections on life, divinity, and our place in the universe.

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.