Poets by Joyce Kilmer (1914)
The poem explores the idea that even the smallest and seemingly insignificant things, like a tree, can be beautiful and worthy of appreciation. It argues that poetry is a way to express this appreciation and to find beauty in everyday life. The speaker suggests that poetry can help people see the world in a new light and appreciate its beauty.
By Joyce Kilmer · First published 1914 · Genre: Poetry, Religious, Philosophical · 90 words
First lines
Vain is the chiming of forgotten bells That the wind sways above a ruined shrine. Vainer his voice in whom no longer dwells Hunger that craves immortal Bread and Wine.
Light songs we breathe that perish with our breath Out of our lips that have not kissed the rod. They shall not live who have not tasted death. They only sing who are struck dumb by God.
What this Textopian page supports
Poets is listed on Textopian as a poem by Joyce Kilmer, dated 1914 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: 1914 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Religious, Philosophical, Lyric, Romantic
- Length: 90 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is primarily composed of verse, employing rhythm and meter to convey emotions and themes.
- Religious — The themes explore spiritual longing and the divine, reflecting on the relationship between humanity and God.
- Philosophical — The text delves into existential questions about life, death, and the nature of artistic expression.
- Lyric — The work expresses personal feelings and thoughts, characteristic of lyric poetry.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry Collection · Nature Poetry · Symbolism · Imagery · Figurative Language · Free Verse · Modernist Poetry · Early 20th Century · American Poets · Literary Movement · Regionalism