On a Dial by Madison Cawein (1902)
The poem explores the themes of time, mortality, and the human condition. It begins with a reflection on the cyclical nature of time, suggesting that each day is merely a repetition of the last, leading to a sense of futility. The speaker expresses a cynical view of time, associating it with sorrow and decay, implying that life is a series of borrowed moments that ultimately lead to despair. As the poem progresses, it delves into the idea that since time is linked to sadness and inevitable decline, people resort to foolishness as a coping mechanism. The speaker suggests that in the face of death and moral failings, individuals engage in various behaviors—laughter, cursing, and prayer—as a response to their existential plight. The mention of "the Devil's to pay" underscores the consequences of human actions and the moral reckoning that accompanies life’s transience. Overall, the work presents a bleak yet poignant commentary on the human experience, emphasizing the struggle against the relentless passage of time and the inevitability of death. The tone is reflective and somber, inviting readers to contemplate their own lives and the choices they make in the face of mortality.
By Madison Cawein · First published 1902 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Lyrical · 116 words
First lines
1. To-morrow and to-morrow Is but to-day: The world wags but to borrow Time that grows gray: -- Grammercy! time's but sorrow And -- well away!
2. Since time hales but to sadness And to decay, Men needs wax fools for madness, Laugh, curse, and pray; Death grapples with their badness -- The Devil's to pay.
What this Textopian page supports
On a Dial 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, Philosophical, Lyrical, Dark Romanticism, Existential
- Length: 116 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs poetic devices, focusing on themes of time, decay, and existential reflection.
- Philosophical — The themes explore deep philosophical questions about the nature of time, existence, and human folly.
- Lyrical — The emotional and expressive quality of the language indicates a lyrical style, emphasizing personal feelings and thoughts.
- Dark Romanticism — The exploration of death, decay, and the darker aspects of human experience aligns with the themes of Dark Romanticism.
Tags
Poetry · Nature · Imagery · Symbolism · Metaphor · Simile · Personification · Alliteration · Assonance · Consonance · Enjambment · Caesura