Longing by Madison Cawein (1902)
The poem explores themes of longing and desire, using nature as a metaphor for emotional states. The speaker reflects on the beauty of spring, symbolized by blooming flowers and vibrant landscapes, which evoke feelings of yearning for a beloved. The imagery of wind-flowers and April skies sets a tone of renewal and hope, while the mention of tears in the beloved's eyes suggests a deeper emotional complexity. As the poem progresses, the speaker's longing intensifies, paralleling the natural beauty around them. The May-apples, shy and hidden, represent the speaker's beloved, whose modesty and innocence are cherished. The connection between nature and personal emotion is emphasized, illustrating how the beauty of the world can mirror inner feelings of love and desire. The speaker's yearning is palpable, as they express a desire for happier skies and the presence of their beloved. The use of similes, comparing the beloved's cheeks to flowers and nature, reinforces the intertwining of love and the natural world. The poem captures the essence of longing, portraying it as a universal experience that resonates with the beauty of springtime. Ultimately, the work encapsulates the bittersweet nature of desire, where the beauty of the external world amplifies the internal ache for connection and love. The speaker's reflections serve as a poignant reminder of the interplay between nature and human emotion, highlighting the depth of longing that accompanies love.
By Madison Cawein · First published 1902 · Genre: Lyric Poetry, Romanticism, Nature Poetry · 144 words
First lines
When rathe wind-flowers many peer All rain filled at blue April skies, As on one smiles one's lady dear With the big tear-drops in her eyes;
When budded May-apples, I wis, Be hidden by lone greenwood creeks, Be bashful as her cheeks we kiss, Be waxen as her dimpled cheeks;
Then do I pine for happier skies, Shy wild-flowers fair by hill and burn; As one for one's sweet lady's eyes, And her white cheeks might pine and yearn.
What this Textopian page supports
Longing 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, Sentimental Poetry, Imagism
- Length: 144 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Confusing
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Lyric Poetry — The poem expresses deep emotional longing and personal feelings, characteristic of lyric poetry.
- Romanticism — The themes of nature, beauty, and emotional depth align with Romantic ideals.
- Nature Poetry — The vivid imagery of flowers and natural elements emphasizes the connection between emotions and nature.
- Sentimental Poetry — The poem conveys strong feelings of yearning and affection, typical of sentimental poetry.
Tags
Poetry · Romance · Love · Longing · Yearning · Desire · Passion · Emotion · Sorrow · Loss · Memory · Nostalgia