Softly the first step of twilight
"Softly the First Step of Twilight" is a poem written by Bliss Carman in 1907. The poem explores the themes of love, beauty, and the passing of time. It describes the gentle descent into twilight, symbolizing the gradual loss of youth and vitality. The speaker reflects on the fleeting nature of life and the importance of cherishing every moment, as each day brings us closer to the darkness of night. Through vivid imagery and evocative language, Carman creates a sense of longing and melancholy, inviting the reader to contemplate the transience of existence.
By Bliss Carman · First published 1899 · Genre: Poetry, Nature writing · 132 words
First lines
Softly the first step of twilight Falls on the darkening dial, One by one kindle the lights In Mitylene.
Noises are hushed in the courtyard, The busy day is departing, Children are called from their games, -- Herds from their grazing.
And from the deep-shadowed angles Comes the soft murmur of lovers, Then through the quiet of dusk Bright sudden laughter.
From the hushed street, through the portal, Where soon my lover will enter, Comes the pure strain of a flute Tender with passion.
What this Textopian page supports
Softly the first step of twilight is listed on Textopian as a poem by Bliss Carman, dated 1899 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Bliss Carman
- Date: 1899 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Nature writing
- Length: 132 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Softly the first step of twilight by Bliss Carman
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Softly the first step of twilight?
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- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- To A Snake by Edna St Vincent Millay
- Heart Of Mine If All The Altars by Bliss Carman
- Softer Than The Hill Fog To The Forest by Bliss Carman
- Floridian by Madison Cawein
- A Voice On The Wind by Madison Cawein
- How Strange Is Love O My Lover by Bliss Carman
Genres
- Poetry — Bliss Carman is primarily known as a poet and he frequently explores themes related to nature and tranquility. The title 'Softly the first step of twilight' suggests a poetic sensibility and themes related to the natural world, making the genre Poetry as the primary genre for this book.
- Nature writing — The title 'Softly the first step of twilight' brings imagery of nature and the passing of time, suggesting themes typically found in Nature writing.
Tags
Nature · Poetry · Romanticism · Mysticism · Symbolism · Imagery · Metaphor · Alliteration · Assonance · Repetition · Enjambment · Free Verse