Love's Nearness (Lyrics) by Henry Van Dyke
The poem explores the idea that love can be both a source of joy and a cause of suffering. It describes how love's nearness can bring people together, but also create feelings of longing and separation. In terms of literary significance, this work is notable for its use of imagery and metaphor to convey complex emotions. The poem's themes of love and loss are timeless and universal, making it relatable to readers across cultures and generations. The style of the poem is characterized by a focus on the emotional and psychological aspects of love, rather than its physical or romantic aspects. This approach adds depth and nuance to the poem's exploration of love's complexities. From a historical perspective, this work reflects the cultural and social attitudes towards love during the time period in which it was written. The poem's themes and imagery are influenced by the literary and philosophical traditions of the era. The poem's structure and form contribute to its overall effect, with a focus on simplicity and clarity that allows the reader to focus on the emotional content of the poem.
By Henry Van Dyke · First published 1903 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Lyric · 164 words
Editions
First lines
I think of thee, when golden sunbeams shimmer / Across the sea; / And when the waves reflect the moon's pale glimmer, / I think of thee.
I see thy form, when down the distant highway / The dust-clouds rise; / In deepest night, above the mountain by-way, / I see thine eyes.
I hear thee when the ocean-tides returning / Loudly rejoice; / And on the lonely moor, in stillness yearning, / I hear thy voice.
I dwell with thee: though thou art far removed, / Yet art thou near. / The sun goes down, the stars shine out, -- / Beloved, / Ah, wert thou here!
What this Textopian page supports
Love's Nearness (Lyrics) is listed on Textopian as a poem by Henry Van Dyke, dated 1903 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Henry Van Dyke
- Date: 1903 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romance, Lyric
- Length: 164 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Love's Nearness (Lyrics) by Henry Van Dyke
- 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
Similar titles
- Ode To Peace Songs Of Hearth And Altar by Henry Van Dyke
- Peace Songs Of Hearth And Altar by Henry Van Dyke
- The Tribe Of The Helpers Wayfaring Psalms In Palestine by Henry Van Dyke
- Wings Of A Dove Of Birds And Flowers by Henry Van Dyke
- To Ellen Sing Me That Song by Mary Baker Eddy
- O For Thy Wings Sweet Bird by Mary Baker Eddy
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with a focus on rhythm and imagery, characteristic of poetry.
- Romance — The themes revolve around love and longing, central to the romance genre.
- Lyric — The work expresses personal emotions and thoughts, typical of lyric poetry.
Tags
Poetry · Romance · Love · Spirituality · Philosophy · Meditation · Reflection · Faith · Hope · Inspiration · Devotional · Christianity