Elusion by Madison Cawein (1902)

Name: Elusion
Author: Madison Cawein

The work explores the theme of an ethereal, enchanting figure that captivates the speaker's soul. This figure, often described in nature-inspired imagery, embodies beauty and allure, leading the speaker through a mystical journey in a forest setting. The speaker experiences a deep connection with this elusive presence, which manifests in various forms—fragrance, light, sound—symbolizing the transient and enchanting aspects of nature. The speaker is drawn to this figure, who invites him to abandon worldly concerns and follow her into the depths of the forest. The imagery evokes a sense of wonder and longing, as the figure appears to be both a part of nature and something beyond it, suggesting a divine or mythical quality. The speaker's admiration is tinged with a sense of yearning for something unattainable, reflecting the human desire to connect with the sublime. Throughout the verses, the figure's influence is portrayed as both gentle and powerful, capable of guiding the speaker through the wilderness while simultaneously embodying the essence of nature's beauty. The speaker's journey is marked by a blend of enchantment and introspection, as he contemplates the nature of this elusive being and the deeper meanings of existence. Ultimately, the work captures the interplay between reality and the ideal, illustrating the tension between the tangible world and the dreamlike qualities of beauty and inspiration. The figure serves as a muse, representing the artistic pursuit of capturing the ephemeral moments of life that resonate with the soul. The speaker's devotion to this figure underscores the universal quest for connection with the extraordinary within the ordinary, highlighting the transformative power of beauty in the natural world.

By Madison Cawein · First published 1902 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Fantasy · 526 words

First lines

I. My soul goes out to her who says, "Come, follow me and cast off care! " Then tosses back her sun-bright hair, And like a flower before me sways Between the green leaves and my gaze: This creature like a girl, who smiles Into my eyes and softly lays Her hand in mine and leads me miles, Long miles of haunted forest ways.

II. Sometimes she seems a faint perfume, A fragrance that a flower exhaled And God gave form to; now, unveiled, A sunbeam making gold the gloom Of vines that roof some woodland room Of boughs; and now the silvery sound Of streams her presence doth assume -- Music, from which, in dreaming drowned, A crystal shape she seems to bloom.

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Elusion is listed on Textopian as a poem by Madison Cawein, dated 1902 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Madison Cawein
Date: 1902 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Romanticism, Fantasy, Nature Writing, Lyrical
Length: 526 words
Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)

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Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is structured in verses and employs poetic devices such as imagery, metaphor, and rhythm.
Romanticism — The themes of nature, beauty, and the idealization of the feminine align with Romantic ideals.
Fantasy — The presence of ethereal beings and the mystical elements suggest a fantasy genre.
Nature Writing — The vivid descriptions of natural settings and the connection to the environment highlight nature writing.