At Last by Madison Cawein (1901)
The poem explores themes of death, love, and the afterlife. It poses poignant questions about what can be said or given to a deceased loved one. The speaker reflects on the finality of death, emphasizing the stillness and dimness of the departed's eyes and the weight of their lifeless head. In the face of this loss, the speaker contemplates the significance of a single word—"love"—which they hope will resonate with the deceased. This word embodies the essence of their relationship and the enduring bond that transcends death. The repetition of questions underscores the speaker's struggle to find meaning in their grief and the desire to communicate with the lost one. The poem further delves into the notion of hope, suggesting that it was denied during the deceased's life but can now be offered in death. This hope is portrayed as a comforting presence, symbolizing the possibility of peace and fulfillment in the afterlife. The imagery evokes a sense of tenderness and longing, as the speaker seeks to provide solace to the departed soul. Overall, the work captures the complexity of mourning, the enduring power of love, and the hope for reconciliation beyond the grave. It reflects on the human experience of loss and the desire to maintain a connection with those who have passed away.
By Madison Cawein · First published 1901 · Genre: Poetry, Elegy, Romanticism · 229 words
First lines
What shall be said to him, Now he is dead? Now that his eyes are dim, Low lies his head? What shall be said to him, Now he is dead?
One word to whisper of Low in his ear; Sweet, but the one word "love" Haply he'll hear. One word to whisper of Low in his ear.
What shall be given him, Now he is dead? Now that his eyes are dim, Low lies his head? What shall be given him, Now he is dead?
Hope, that life long denied Here to his heart, Sweet, lay it now beside, Never to part. Hope, that life long denied Here to his heart.
What this Textopian page supports
At Last is listed on Textopian as a poem by Madison Cawein, dated 1901 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: 1901 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Elegy, Romanticism, Lyrical, Philosophical
- Length: 229 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs poetic devices, focusing on themes of love and loss.
- Elegy — The poem reflects on death and mourning, characteristic of elegiac poetry.
- Romanticism — The themes of love and emotional depth align with Romantic literary ideals.
- Lyrical — The personal expression of feelings and emotions is central to the lyrical genre.
Tags
Poetry · Romance · Love · Nature · Beauty · Sorrow · Loss · Longing · Yearning · Hope · Fate · Destiny