An Old Song by Madison Cawein (1902)
The poem expresses a longing for a return to a simpler, more carefree existence, symbolized by the hills and the songs of hope. The speaker yearns for companionship and encouragement, personified as a friendly figure who offers support and optimism. This figure embodies the spirit of adventure and resilience, urging the speaker to leave behind their current struggles and embrace a brighter future. The imagery of nature, particularly the hills, serves as a metaphor for freedom and escape from life's burdens. The repeated refrain emphasizes a desire to overcome difficulties and find solace in the beauty of the world. The tone is nostalgic, reflecting a deep-seated yearning for connection and the uplifting power of music and nature. As the poem progresses, the speaker's reflections on the past intertwine with a sense of urgency to move forward. The juxtaposition of the "hollows" and "troubles" against the promise of the hills and songs highlights the contrast between despair and hope. The speaker's heart is both heavy with memories and lightened by the prospect of renewal. Ultimately, the work encapsulates a universal theme of seeking solace and joy in the face of adversity, celebrating the enduring human spirit's quest for happiness and belonging. The call to action is both personal and collective, inviting readers to join in the journey toward a more fulfilling existence.
By Madison Cawein · First published 1902 · Genre: Lyric Poetry, Romanticism, Nature Poetry · 160 words
First lines
It's Oh, for the hills, where the wind's some one With a vagabond foot that follows! And a cheer-up hand that he claps upon Your arm with the hearty words, "Come on! We'll soon be out of the hollows, My heart! We'll soon be out of the hollows!"
It's Oh, for the songs, where the hope's some one With a renegade foot that doubles! And a kindly look that he turns upon Your face with the friendly laugh, "Come on! We'll soon be out of the troubles, My heart! We'll soon be out of the troubles! "
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An Old Song 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: Lyric Poetry, Romanticism, Nature Poetry, Inspirational Poetry, Narrative Poetry
- Length: 160 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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- Touches by Madison Cawein
- Will You Forget by Madison Cawein
Genres
- Lyric Poetry — The work features musicality and emotional expression typical of lyric poetry.
- Romanticism — Themes of nature, emotion, and individual experience align with Romantic ideals.
- Nature Poetry — The imagery of hills and wind emphasizes a connection to nature.
- Inspirational Poetry — The poem conveys messages of hope and encouragement.
Tags
Poetry · Nature · Romance · Melancholy · Longing · Nostalgia · Memory · Loss · Grief · Sorrow · Yearning · Wistfulness