The poem describes a woman's garden at Yaddo, where she has placed a sundial with her name on it. The inscription serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of life and time, as well as the beauty and tranquility of the natural world. The poem explores themes of mortality, impermanence, and the passing of time, using the sundial as a symbol for the inevitability of death. It also touches on the idea that even in death, one's legacy can live on through art and nature. The tone is contemplative and melancholic, with a sense of acceptance and resignation. The language is simple yet evocative, creating a sense of intimacy and quiet reflection. The poem can be seen as a meditation on the human experience, encouraging the reader to appreciate the beauty of life while acknowledging its fragility.
By Henry Van Dyke · First published 1903 · Genre: Poetry, Epigram, Philosophical