A Dream by Edward Thomas (1905)
The poem explores the theme of dreams and the subconscious, depicting a journey through familiar and unfamiliar landscapes. The speaker walks with a friend in a dreamlike state, transitioning from known fields to an enigmatic stream that emerges from a mountain. This stream symbolizes the duality of life, with its bright surface contrasting the dark depths below. The speaker becomes entranced by the stream's movement and power, losing awareness of the friend who accompanied him. The imagery evokes a sense of wonder and introspection, as the speaker reflects on the beauty and mystery of the waters. Ultimately, the experience leaves a lasting impression, suggesting a desire to return to this dreamlike state in the future. The work encapsulates the interplay between reality and dreams, emphasizing the allure of the unknown and the fleeting nature of moments shared with others.
By Edward Thomas · First published 1905 · Genre: Poetry, Dream Literature, Nature Writing · 137 words
First lines
Over known fields with an old friend in dream I walked, but came sudden to a strange stream.
Its dark waters were bursting out most bright From a great mountain's heart into the light.
They ran a short course under the sun, then back Into a pit they plunged, once more as black As at their birth; and I stood thinking there How white, had the day shone on them, they were, Heaving and coiling. So by the roar and hiss And by the mighty motion of the abyss I was bemused, that I forgot my friend And neither saw nor sought him till the end, When I awoke from waters unto men Saying: "I shall be here some day again. "
What this Textopian page supports
A Dream is listed on Textopian as a poem by Edward Thomas, dated 1905 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Edward Thomas
- Date: 1905 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Dream Literature, Nature Writing, Philosophical Literature, Symbolism
- Length: 137 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Similar titles
- The Onset by Robert Frost
- The Lofty Sky by Edward Thomas
- The Unknown Bird by Edward Thomas
- The Lonely Land by Madison Cawein
- To E by Lord Byron
- How At Once by Edward Thomas
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing imagery and metaphor typical of poetic expression.
- Dream Literature — The narrative centers around a dream experience, exploring themes of consciousness and the subconscious.
- Nature Writing — The poem vividly describes natural elements, particularly the stream and mountain, reflecting a connection to the natural world.
- Philosophical Literature — The poem contemplates existence and the nature of reality, inviting deeper reflection on life and dreams.
Tags
Poetry · Nature · Imagination · Dreams · Symbolism · Metaphor · Allegory · Fantasy · Realism · Romanticism · Nostalgia · Longing