Self by Madison Cawein (1903)
The poem explores the complexities of self-identity and the human experience through a philosophical lens. It begins with a reflection on the duality of existence, contrasting the spiritual and the corporeal. The speaker contemplates the nature of humanity, suggesting that life is a commentary on the self, shaped by desires and experiences. The imagery of Sodom and the Peri highlights the tension between sin and redemption, emphasizing the struggle between earthly pleasures and spiritual aspirations. The poem questions the divine order, suggesting that individual experiences and desires take precedence over abstract notions of morality or divinity. The speaker asserts that the essence of a person is rooted in their heart, which governs their actions and identity. This internal focus suggests that self-awareness and personal truth are paramount. The poem concludes with the idea that one's identity is a reflection of their experiences, whether they align with love or suffering. Overall, the work delves into themes of self-exploration, the interplay between flesh and spirit, and the significance of personal agency in defining one's existence.
By Madison Cawein · First published 1903 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Spiritual · 218 words
First lines
A Sufi debauchee of dreams Spake this: -- From Sodomite to Peri Earth tablets us; we live and are Man's own long commentary.
Is one begat in Bassora, One lies in Damietta dying -- The plausibilities of God All possibles o'erlying.
But burns the lust within the flesh? -- Hell's but a homily to Heaven, -- Put then the individual first, And of thyself be shriven.
Neither in adamant nor brass The scrutinizing eye records it; The arm is rooted in the heart, The heart that rules and lords it.
What this Textopian page supports
Self is listed on Textopian as a poem by Madison Cawein, dated 1903 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: 1903 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Spiritual, Literary Fiction, Existential
- Length: 218 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Self by Madison Cawein
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse and employs poetic devices, focusing on themes of self and existence.
- Philosophical — The text explores deep philosophical questions about identity, existence, and the nature of humanity.
- Spiritual — The references to Sufism and spiritual themes indicate a focus on inner exploration and transcendence.
- Literary Fiction — The work's emphasis on character introspection and thematic depth aligns with literary fiction.
Tags
Philosophical · Psychological · Existential · Poetic · Stream-of-consciousness · Autobiographical · Inner-monologue · Self-discovery · Identity · Mortality · Meaning-of-life · Purpose