Peace by Georgia Douglas Johnson
The poem explores themes of tranquility, nature, and introspection. The speaker seeks refuge in a serene woodland, away from the chaos of society. This retreat into nature serves as a sanctuary, allowing for a deep sense of peace and reflection. The imagery of blossoms and the soothing sounds of streams create a vivid picture of the natural world, emphasizing its restorative qualities. As the speaker immerses themselves in this environment, they experience a calming of their inner turmoil. The juxtaposition of the "throbbing crowd of men" with the peaceful solitude of the woods highlights the contrast between societal pressures and the solace found in nature. The act of resting in this idyllic setting symbolizes a desire to escape the burdens of life and find solace in simplicity. The poem conveys a longing for connection with the natural world, suggesting that true peace can be found when one disconnects from the noise of civilization. The speaker's experience in the woods becomes a metaphor for inner healing and self-discovery, as they embrace the tranquility that nature offers. The final lines encapsulate the essence of forgetting worldly concerns and being forgotten in return, reinforcing the theme of liberation through solitude in nature.
By Georgia Douglas Johnson · First published 1918 · Genre: Lyric Poetry, Nature Poetry, Romanticism · 108 words
First lines
I rest me deep within the wood, Drawn by its silent call, Far from the throbbing crowd of men On nature's breast I fall.
My couch is sweet with blossoms fair, A bed of fragrant dreams, And soft upon my ear there falls The lullaby of streams.
The tumult of my heart is stilled, Within this sheltered spot, Deep in the bosom of the wood, Forgetting, and -- forgot!
What this Textopian page supports
Peace is listed on Textopian as a poem by Georgia Douglas Johnson, dated 1918 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: 1918 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Lyric Poetry, Nature Poetry, Romanticism, Meditative Poetry, Symbolism
- Length: 108 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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- Work identity for Peace by Georgia Douglas Johnson
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Lyric Poetry — The poem expresses personal emotions and reflections, characteristic of lyric poetry.
- Nature Poetry — The imagery and themes focus on nature and its calming effects, typical of nature poetry.
- Romanticism — The emphasis on emotion, nature, and individual experience aligns with Romantic literary themes.
- Meditative Poetry — The poem invites contemplation and introspection, fitting the meditative genre.
Tags
Poetry · African American Literature · Early 20th Century · Social Justice · Peace Movement · Anti-War · Feminism · Suffrage · Racism · Segregation · Civil Rights · War Poetry