Wayfarers by Joyce Kilmer (1914)
The poem describes a journey through the wilderness, with the speaker reflecting on the beauty of nature and the passing of time. The wayfarers are depicted as being at peace with their surroundings, observing the changing seasons and the cycles of life. The poem explores themes of mortality, impermanence, and the human connection to the natural world.
By Joyce Kilmer · First published 1914 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Fantasy · 164 words
First lines
Underneath the orchard trees lies a gypsy sleeping, Tattered cloak and swarthy face and shaggy moonlit hair, One brown hand his crazy fiddle in its grasp is keeping, Through the Land of Dreams he strolls and sings his love songs there.
Up above the apple blossoms where the stars are shining, Free and careless wandering among the clouds he goes, Singing of his lady-love and for her pleasure twining Wreaths of Heaven flowers, violet and golden rose.
In his sleep he stirs, and wakes to find his love beside him, Pours his load of Dreamland blooms before her silver feet, Takes her in his arms and as her soft brown tresses hide him Both together fare to Dreamland up the star-paved street.
What this Textopian page supports
Wayfarers 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, Romanticism, Fantasy, Lyric, Nature Writing
- Length: 164 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
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Similar titles
- Mountains by Henry David Thoreau
- Two Voyagers by Emily Dickinson
- Journey by Edna St Vincent Millay
- Vagabonds by Madison Cawein
- Moonlight Night by Ranier Maria Rilke
- The Lone Trail by Robert W. Service
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and imagery typical of poetic expression.
- Romanticism — Themes of love, nature, and idealized beauty are central, reflecting romantic ideals.
- Fantasy — The narrative includes dreamlike elements and a whimsical portrayal of love and nature.
- Lyric — The focus on personal emotions and the beauty of the moment aligns with lyrical poetry.
Tags
Poetry · Nature · Travel · Adventure · Exploration · Philosophy · Spirituality · Meditation · Self-Discovery · Personal Growth · Existentialism · Human Condition