Autumn by Georgia Douglas Johnson
The poem explores themes of love, transformation, and the passage of time. It begins with a speaker reflecting on the profound impact of love that arrives unexpectedly and late in life. This love is depicted as overwhelming, silencing the speaker's thoughts and emotions, akin to a rebirth. The imagery of moving from darkness to light symbolizes a newfound clarity and awakening, suggesting that love has the power to change one's perspective dramatically. As the poem progresses, the speaker grapples with the intensity of these feelings, acknowledging the stark contrast between their previous state and the vibrant reality brought forth by love. The use of natural imagery, such as sunlight, emphasizes the warmth and illumination that love provides, while also hinting at the fleeting nature of such moments. The speaker's journey reflects a universal experience of longing and the transformative power of connection. The late arrival of love suggests a sense of urgency and appreciation for the present, as the speaker recognizes the beauty in their current emotional state. The poem captures the essence of love as a catalyst for personal growth and renewal, illustrating how it can reshape one's identity and outlook on life. Overall, the work encapsulates the complexity of human emotions, the significance of timing in relationships, and the enduring impact of love on the soul. The speaker's voice resonates with a blend of vulnerability and strength, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences with love and transformation.
By Georgia Douglas Johnson · First published 1907 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Lyric · 61 words
First lines
Believe me-–-when I say That love like yours, at this belated hour, Overwhelms me --
Stills the fount of thought!
I move as one new-born --
And strange to swift transitions As from my prison door I gaze Into a blinding sunlight!
What this Textopian page supports
Autumn is listed on Textopian as a poem by Georgia Douglas Johnson, dated 1907 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Georgia Douglas Johnson
- Date: 1907 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romanticism, Lyric, Modernism, Nature
- Length: 61 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Autumn by Georgia Douglas Johnson
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Autumn?
- How does this poem by Georgia Douglas Johnson fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Autumn Chant by Edna St Vincent Millay
- Winter by Madison Cawein
- Frost by Madison Cawein
- October by Madison Cawein
- August by Madison Cawein
- Music by Madison Cawein
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, utilizing poetic devices and structure.
- Romanticism — Themes of love and emotional intensity are central to the poem.
- Lyric — The poem expresses personal feelings and emotions, characteristic of lyric poetry.
- Modernism — The poem reflects modernist themes of transformation and self-awareness.
Tags
Poetry · Nature · Seasonal · Autumn · Symbolism · Imagery · Figurative Language · Metaphor · Simile · Personification · Alliteration · Assonance