In Winter by Madison Cawein (1902)
The poem explores the stark beauty and somber atmosphere of winter, juxtaposing the harshness of the season with intimate moments of warmth and affection. It begins by depicting a landscape transformed by frost, where nature's elements—frozen waters, wildfowl in flight, and the grim presence of death—create a vivid, chilling scene. The imagery evokes a sense of desolation, yet it contrasts with the warmth of home, symbolized by the "home-lights" that twinkle like eyes in the dusk. As the poem progresses, it shifts focus to the sounds and sights of winter, where leaves drift and winds create a haunting melody. The new moon, described with silver horns, adds a touch of ethereal beauty to the cold night. Despite the loneliness suggested by the frost, the poem emphasizes the joy found in companionship. The repeated references to a "sweetheart" highlight the importance of love and connection amidst the starkness of winter. The closing lines reinforce the theme of warmth and intimacy, as the speaker expresses a desire for closeness, culminating in a tender goodnight kiss. Overall, the work captures the duality of winter—its harshness and beauty—while celebrating the solace found in love during the coldest months.
By Madison Cawein · First published 1902 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Nature Writing · 202 words
First lines
/ I. When black frosts pluck the acorns down, / And in the lane the waters freeze; / And 'thwart red skies the wild-fowl flies, / And death sits grimly 'mid the trees; / When home-lights glitter in the brown / Of dusk like shaggy eyes, -- / Before the door his feet, sweetheart, / And two white arms that greet, sweetheart, / And two white arms that greet.
/ II. When ways are drifted with the leaves, / And winds make music in the thorns; / And lone and lost above the frost / The new moon shows its silver horns; / When underneath the lamp-lit eaves / The opened door is crossed, -- / A happy heart and light, sweetheart, / And lips to kiss good-night, sweetheart, / And lips to kiss good-night.
What this Textopian page supports
In Winter 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, Nature Writing, Lyric, Seasonal Literature
- Length: 202 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)
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- Work identity for In Winter by Madison Cawein
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse, utilizing rhythm and imagery typical of poetry.
- Romanticism — The themes of love, nature, and emotional expression align with Romantic ideals.
- Nature Writing — The vivid descriptions of winter landscapes and natural elements emphasize the connection to nature.
- Lyric — The personal and emotional tone reflects the characteristics of lyric poetry.
Tags
Winter · Poetry · Nature · Seasonal · Mood · Atmosphere · Solitude · Isolation · Melancholy · Longing · Nostalgia · Memory