A Song of Rain by C.J. Dennis (1915)
The work celebrates the arrival of rain across a vast landscape, highlighting the joy and relief it brings to the people and the environment. It begins by attributing the rain to various whimsical causes, such as a playful wind or a divine intervention, emphasizing the interconnectedness of nature and humanity's gratitude. As the poem progresses, it paints a vivid picture of different regions experiencing the downpour, showcasing the collective happiness of communities from Adelaide to the outback. The rain is depicted as a blessing that quenches the thirst of the land, revives spirits, and brings hope for prosperity. The imagery evokes scenes of cattle and horses rejoicing, townspeople celebrating, and the earth coming alive again. The poem captures the essence of renewal and the cyclical nature of life, where the rain symbolizes not just physical nourishment but also emotional upliftment. Throughout, there is a rhythmic quality that mirrors the patter of rain, reinforcing the theme of abundance and the shared experience of joy among diverse populations. The work concludes with a powerful affirmation of gratitude, as the rain is embraced as a life-giving force, echoing the sentiments of relief and celebration across the continent.
By C.J. Dennis · First published 1915 · Genre: Poetry, Nature, Celebration · 821 words
First lines
Because a little vagrant wind veered south from China Sea; Or else, because a sun-spot stirred; and yet again, maybe Because some idle god in play breathed on an errant cloud, The heads of twice two million folk in gratitude are bowed.
Patter, patter. Boolconmatta, Adelaide and Oodnadatta, Pepegoona, parched and dry Laugh beneath a dripping sky. Riverina's thirsting plain Knows the benison of rain. Ararat and Arkaroola Render thanks with Tantanoola For the blessings they are gaining, And it's raining -- raining -- raining!
What this Textopian page supports
A Song of Rain is listed on Textopian as a poem by C.J. Dennis, dated 1915 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: C.J. Dennis
- Date: 1915 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Nature, Celebration, Australian Literature, Lyric
- Length: 821 words
- Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Similar titles
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- Crocus Song by Frederic Manning
- Song Day In Autumn by D. H. Lawrence
- Rain by Robert Louis Stevenson
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- An Autumn Song by George Macdonald
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and rhyme, characteristic of poetry.
- Nature — The themes revolve around rain and its impact on the environment and human emotions.
- Celebration — The poem expresses joy and gratitude for the arrival of rain, celebrating its life-giving properties.
- Australian Literature — The poem reflects Australian landscapes and culture, making it relevant to Australian literary traditions.
Tags
poetry · nature · rain · emotion · melancholy · beauty · imagery · reflection · serenity · landscape · nostalgia · transience