The White Gull by Bliss Carman
A poem about the fleeting nature of life and the importance of living in the present moment. The speaker reflects on the passage of time and the way it shapes our experiences, memories, and perceptions. The white gull serves as a symbol of the transience of life, flying overhead with its "silver wings outstretched." The poem encourages the reader to cherish every moment and to live fully in the present, as time slips away like sand in an hourglass.
By Bliss Carman · First published 1910 · Genre: Poetry, Nature, Romanticism · 1,764 words
First lines
_For the Centenary of the Birth of Shelley_
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What this Textopian page supports
The White Gull is listed on Textopian as a poem by Bliss Carman, dated 1910 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: 1910 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Nature, Romanticism, Canadian Literature
- Length: 1,764 words
- Structure: 1 section, 41 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — Bliss Carman is known primarily as a poet, and 'The White Gull' is a compilation of his poems.
- Nature — Known for his depictions of landscapes, wildlife, and natural phenomena, Carman's work is categorized under nature literature.
- Romanticism — Carman's poems often embrace themes of nature and personal emotion, aligning with the Romantic literary movement.
- Canadian Literature — Bliss Carman was a prominent figure in Canadian literature, and his works are representative of the literary culture of his place and time.
Tags
Nature poetry · Sea imagery · Bird symbolism · Mythology · Fantasy · Supernatural · Romanticism · Canadian literature · Poetic drama · Symbolist movement · 19th century literature · Classic poetry