
This poem is a meditation on the power of poetry to transcend time and silence. It begins by acknowledging the speaker's isolation in a silent time, but then turns to a poem that has been written in this same moment. The poem within the poem is described as a "small, still voice" that speaks directly to the reader. The poem explores the idea that even in times of silence and isolation, poetry can provide a sense of connection and community. It suggests that the poem's words have the power to bridge the gap between speaker and listener, and to create a sense of shared experience. Throughout the poem, there is a sense of longing for human connection and understanding. The speaker yearns for someone to share in their thoughts and feelings, but ultimately finds solace in the poem itself.
By Alice Meynell · First published 1903 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Literary Fiction · 139 words
Who looked for thee, thou little song of mine? This winter of a silent poet's heart Is suddenly sweet with thee, but what thou art, Mid-winter flower, I would I could divine.
Art thou a last one, orphan of thy line? Did the dead summer's last warmth foster thee? Or is Spring folded up unguessed in me, And stirring out of sight, -- and thou the sign?
Where shall I look -- backwards or to the morrow For others of thy fragrance, secret child? Who knows if last things or if first things claim thee?
-- Whether thou be the last smile of my sorrow, Or else a joy too sweet, a joy too wild? How, my December violet, shall I name thee?
Poems: SONNET -- TO ONE POEM IN A SILENT TIME is listed on Textopian as a poem by Alice Meynell, dated 1903 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
19th century · English poetry · art · child · claim · dead · december · divine · flower · folded · foster · fragrance