Ambition by Madison Cawein (1902)
The poem explores the theme of ambition as a double-edged sword, portraying it as both alluring and ultimately deceptive. The speaker expresses a deep yearning for fulfillment and success, yet recognizes the inherent emptiness and betrayal that often accompany such desires. The imagery of opiates and forgetfulness suggests a desire to escape the pain of unfulfilled aspirations, while the references to beauty and music highlight the seductive nature of ambition. The speaker reflects on the relentless passage of time, marked by "laborious days," indicating the struggle and effort invested in pursuing dreams. However, this pursuit is depicted as futile, with ambition likened to a fleeting fire that promises illumination but leads only to disillusionment. The poem conveys a sense of entrapment, where the allure of ambition ultimately leads to despair, as the speaker grapples with the tension between hope and the harsh realities of life. Through vivid metaphors and a tone of resignation, the work encapsulates the complexities of human desire, illustrating how the pursuit of ambition can transform into a source of anguish rather than fulfillment. The speaker's journey reflects a broader commentary on the nature of aspiration, revealing the often painful dichotomy between dreams and reality.
By Madison Cawein · First published 1902 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Symbolism · 166 words
First lines
Now to my lips lift then some opiate Of black forgetfulness! while in thy gaze Still lures the loveless beauty that betrays, And in thy mouth the music that is hate. No promise more hast thou to make me wait; No smile to cozen my sick heart with praise! Far, far behind thee stretch laborious days, And far before thee, labors soon and late. Thine is the fen-fire that we deem a star, Flying before us, ever fugitive, Thy mocking policy still holds afar: And thine the voice, to which our longings give Hope's siren face, that speaks us sweet and fair, Only to lead us captives to Despair.
What this Textopian page supports
Ambition is listed on Textopian as a poem by Madison Cawein, dated 1902 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Madison Cawein
- Date: 1902 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romanticism, Symbolism, Existentialism, Lyric
- Length: 166 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse and employs poetic devices such as imagery and metaphor.
- Romanticism — The themes of longing, beauty, and despair align with Romantic ideals.
- Symbolism — The use of symbols like 'fen-fire' and 'siren face' conveys deeper meanings and emotions.
- Existentialism — The exploration of despair and the futility of ambition reflects existential themes.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Symbolism · Nature · Existentialism · Philosophy · Psychology · Human Condition · Ambition · Desire · Fate