Shadows by Madison Cawein (1907)
The poem explores themes of guilt, haunting memories, and the interplay between life and death. It begins with a speaker who feels tormented by a ghostly presence, suggesting a deep sense of remorse for past actions. The imagery evokes a struggle between the mind and the darker aspects of existence, where dreams and fears intertwine. The speaker reflects on the nature of death and the afterlife, expressing a desire for the grave to decay the soul as it does the body. This desire indicates a wish for a more tangible resolution to guilt, contrasting the permanence of the soul with the physical decay of the body. The poem suggests that death may not provide the relief one seeks, as the conscience remains burdened. The work delves into the psychological torment that arises from unresolved issues and the haunting nature of memories. It portrays a sense of entrapment within one's own mind, where the past continues to exert influence over the present. The speaker grapples with the idea that death may not offer liberation but rather an intensification of the struggles faced in life. Overall, the poem presents a complex exploration of existential themes, emphasizing the weight of guilt and the haunting nature of unresolved emotions. The interplay between life, death, and the psyche creates a rich tapestry of meaning, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences with remorse and the shadows that linger in their lives.
By Madison Cawein · First published 1907 · Genre: Poetry, Gothic, Dark Fantasy · 203 words
First lines
1. Ha! help! -- 'twas palpable! A ghost that thronged Up from the mind or hell Of one I wronged!
2. 'Tis past and -- silence! -- naught! -- A vision born Of the scared mind o'erwrought With dreams forlorn:
3. The bastard brood of Death And Sleep that wakes Grim fancies with its breath, And reason shakes.
4. Would that the grave _could_ rot Like flesh the soul, Gnaw through with worms and not Leave it thus whole,
What this Textopian page supports
Shadows 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, Gothic, Dark Fantasy, Philosophical, Romanticism
- Length: 203 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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- Storm Fear by Robert Frost
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- The Haunted Palace by Edgar Allan Poe
- The Closed Door by Madison Cawein
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Gothic — Themes of death, the supernatural, and psychological turmoil are prevalent.
- Dark Fantasy — Elements of fantasy intertwine with dark themes and existential reflections.
- Philosophical — Explores deep questions about life, death, and the human condition.
Tags
Darkness · Mystery · Poetry · Symbolism · Imagery · Atmosphere · Emotion · Psychological · Inner Turmoil · Conflict · Isolation · Loneliness