Qui Docet, Discit by Madison Cawein
The poem explores the themes of love, loss, and the passage of time through contrasting imagery of seasons. It begins in a vibrant, idyllic summer filled with flowers and joy, symbolizing the initial stages of love and happiness. The speaker reflects on a time when love was carefree and abundant, represented by the bright and warm atmosphere. As the poem transitions to autumn, the tone shifts dramatically. The once bright world is now described in darker hues, symbolizing the onset of sorrow and the inevitability of change. Autumn, characterized by decay and the end of warmth, serves as a metaphor for the fading of love and the memories that linger. The speaker invites love back into their life, acknowledging its absence and the grief it brings. The juxtaposition of the seasons highlights the cyclical nature of love and life, illustrating how joy can turn to sorrow. The imagery of flowers and warmth contrasts sharply with the frost and darkness of autumn, emphasizing the emotional journey from bliss to melancholy. The poem ultimately reflects on the enduring impact of love, even in its absence, and the desire to reconnect with those cherished memories.
By Madison Cawein · First published 1902 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Lyric · 170 words
First lines
I. When all the world was white with flowers, And Summer, in her sun-built towers, Stood smiling 'mid her handmaid Hours, Who robed her limbs for bridal; Somewhere between the golden sands And purple hills of Folly's lands, Love, with a laugh, let go our hands, And left our sides to idle.
II. Now all the world is red with doom, And Autumn, in her frost-carved room, Bends darkly o'er the gipsy loom Of memories she weaves there; Who knocks at night upon the door, All travel-worn and pale and poor? -- Open! and let him in once more, The Love that stands and grieves there.
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Qui Docet, Discit 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, Lyric, Nature Writing, Symbolism
- Length: 170 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Romanticism — Themes of love, nature, and emotional depth are prevalent, characteristic of Romantic literature.
- Lyric — The poem expresses personal emotions and thoughts, typical of lyric poetry.
- Nature Writing — The vivid imagery of seasons and landscapes reflects a strong connection to nature.
Tags
Philosophical · Poetic · Meditative · Existential · Psychological · Literary · Symbolic · Allegorical · Mythological · Historical · Cultural · Social