By the Aurelian Wall by Bliss Carman
The poem is a meditation on the passage of time and the fleeting nature of human existence. It begins with an image of a wall that has stood for centuries, a testament to the enduring power of human creativity and ingenuity. However, as the poem progresses, it becomes clear that even this seemingly permanent structure is subject to the ravages of time. The speaker reflects on the transience of human life, noting how individuals come and go, leaving behind only memories and artifacts. The wall serves as a reminder of what has been lost, a poignant symbol of the impermanence of all things.
By Bliss Carman · First published 1912 · Genre: Poetry, Historical, Romantic · 732 words
First lines
_In Memory of John Keats_
By the Aurelian Wall, Where the long shadows of the centuries fall From Caius Cestius' tomb, A weary mortal seeking rest found room For quiet burial,
What this Textopian page supports
By the Aurelian Wall is listed on Textopian as a poem by Bliss Carman, dated 1912 CE.
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- Work type: Poem
- Author: Bliss Carman
- Date: 1912 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Historical, Romantic
- Length: 732 words
- Structure: 1 section, 17 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — Bliss Carman is primarily known as a poet, and 'By the Aurelian Wall' is a collection of his verses.
- Historical — The title refers to the Aurelian Wall in Rome, invoking historical elements.
- Romantic — Bliss Carman's poetry often contains romantic and emotional elements.
Tags
poetry · classic literature · Canadian literature · Romanticism · nature poetry · travel writing · historical fiction · literary fiction · symbolism · metaphor · imagery · inspiration