Old Ghosts by Madison Cawein (1907)
The work explores themes of memory, nostalgia, and the ethereal nature of love through vivid imagery and sensory details. It opens with a lush description of a tranquil evening filled with fragrant flowers and the sounds of nature, setting a dreamlike atmosphere. The protagonist, possibly a woman, moves gracefully through this enchanting landscape, evoking a sense of beauty and transience. As the scene unfolds, the presence of another shadow suggests companionship and intimacy, highlighted by the act of two lovers sharing a kiss under the stars. This moment serves as a catalyst for reflection on past relationships and the enduring impact of lost love. The narrative poses questions about the nature of these memories—whether they are mere echoes of the past or manifestations of lingering spirits. The motif of "old ghosts" symbolizes the inescapable memories that haunt the living, suggesting that the past remains intertwined with the present. The work captures the essence of romantic longing and the bittersweet nature of reminiscence, emphasizing that certain experiences and emotions are timeless, forever etched in the fabric of one's existence. The interplay between the physical world and the spectral presence of memories creates a haunting yet beautiful exploration of love's legacy.
By Madison Cawein · First published 1907 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Gothic · 314 words
First lines
Clove-spicy pinks and phlox that fill the sense With drowsy indolence; And in the evening skies Interior splendor, pregnant with surprise, As if in some new wise The full moon soon would rise.
Hung with the crimson aigrets of its seeds The purple monkshood bleeds; The dewy crickets chirr, And everywhere are lights of lavender; And scents of musk and myrrh To guide the foot of her.
What this Textopian page supports
Old Ghosts is listed on Textopian as a poem by Madison Cawein, dated 1907 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: 1907 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romanticism, Gothic, Lyric, Nature Writing
- Length: 314 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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- Work identity for Old Ghosts by Madison Cawein
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, utilizing rhythm and imagery typical of poetry.
- Romanticism — Themes of love, nature, and nostalgia are prevalent, characteristic of the Romantic genre.
- Gothic — The presence of ghosts and a haunting atmosphere aligns with Gothic elements.
- Lyric — The personal expression of emotions and thoughts reflects the lyric genre.
Tags
Gothic Fiction · Mystery · Thriller · Supernatural · Horror · Dark Fantasy · Paranormal · Suspense · Psychological Thriller · Atmospheric · Moody · Eerie