The Sun-Dial at Wells College (Greetings and Ins
This poem is a meditation on the passing of time and the human experience. It describes a sundial at Wells College that has witnessed generations come and go. The inscription on the sundial reads: "Time goes, you see. And when it turns back, the hands are so." This phrase suggests that time is cyclical, and that events repeat themselves. The poem explores the idea that despite the passage of time, human experience remains constant. It notes that people come to the sundial with their hopes and fears, and that these emotions remain unchanged over time. The poem concludes by suggesting that the sundial's inscription is a reminder to appreciate the present moment, as it is all we truly have. The poem also touches on the idea of nostalgia and the human tendency to look back on past experiences with fondness. It notes that people often return to the sundial, not just to mark the passage of time, but also to relive memories of the past. Overall, the poem presents a nuanced exploration of the human experience, one that acknowledges both the passing of time and the enduring nature of human emotions.
By Henry Van Dyke · First published 1901 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational · 83 words
First lines
The shadow by my finger cast Divides the future from the past: Before it, sleeps the unborn hour In darkness, and beyond thy power: Behind its unreturning line, The vanished hour, no longer thine: One hour alone is in thy hands, -- The NOW on which the shadow stands.
March, 1904.
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The Sun-Dial at Wells College (Greetings and Inscriptions) is listed on Textopian as a poem by Henry Van Dyke, dated 1901 CE.
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- Work type: Poem
- Author: Henry Van Dyke
- Date: 1901 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational
- Length: 83 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)
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Similar titles
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- The Heights by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
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- Retrospection by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
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- The Undiscovered Country by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter to convey its message.
- Philosophical — The themes explore the nature of time, existence, and the human condition, prompting reflection on the present moment.
- Inspirational — The content encourages mindfulness and living in the present, offering a motivational perspective on time.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry Collection · Inspirational · Spiritual · Philosophical · Nature · Symbolism · Sun Symbolism · College Life · Academic Setting · Coming of Age · Self-Discovery