Alchemy by Joyce Kilmer (1918)
The poem explores the idea of alchemy as a metaphor for personal transformation and spiritual growth. It describes the process of turning base metals into gold, but also touches on the idea that true wealth lies within oneself. The speaker reflects on the fleeting nature of material possessions and the importance of cultivating inner wisdom and compassion.
By Joyce Kilmer · First published 1918 · Genre: Lyric Poetry, Romanticism, Imagism · 122 words
First lines
I sang two little songs one day, I sang them for a lady's pleasure, I took her praise for wreath of bay, Her smile for largess beyond measure.
I sang out in the market square And most folk could not understand; One who by chance was passing there Dropped down some silver in my hand.
Now since the songs I gave you, Sweet, Have turned to silver fair and gleaming, For your pleasaunce as is most meet The silver turns to song and dreaming.
What this Textopian page supports
Alchemy is listed on Textopian as a poem by Joyce Kilmer, 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: Joyce Kilmer
- Date: 1918 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Lyric Poetry, Romanticism, Imagism, Narrative Poetry, Symbolism
- Length: 122 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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- Work identity for Alchemy by Joyce Kilmer
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Lyric Poetry — The work is characterized by its musical quality and emotional expression, typical of lyric poetry.
- Romanticism — Themes of beauty, nature, and personal emotion align with the principles of Romanticism.
- Imagism — The vivid imagery and focus on sensory experience reflect the characteristics of Imagism.
- Narrative Poetry — The poem tells a story through its verses, fitting the narrative poetry genre.
Tags
Poetry · Nature · Spirituality · Philosophy · Mysticism · Symbolism · Metaphor · Imagery · Language · Rhetoric · Literary Device · Allegory