Spring by Madison Cawein (1907)
The poem captures the essence of spring, illustrating the rejuvenation of nature as the season unfolds. It begins with the imagery of Apollo, the sun god, casting his rays upon the mountain tops, signaling the arrival of spring. The landscape transforms as fountains burst forth, creating torrents that nourish the earth, leading to the greening of slopes, valleys, and meadows. The poem describes the movement of wildlife, with goats and flocks of sheep grazing contentedly in the lush environment. Cattle are depicted as they navigate the rugged terrain, finding shelter in the protective hollows formed by rocks. The presence of Pan, the god of nature, is evoked, suggesting a harmonious relationship between the divine and the natural world. The imagery of old forests is prominent, with the gnarled oak standing tall and the maple tree adorned with new leaves, symbolizing vitality and growth. The poem emphasizes the nurturing aspects of spring, with warm milk flowing in quiet shadows, representing sustenance and life. The abundance of fruits and honey further illustrates the richness of the season, celebrating the interconnectedness of all living things in this vibrant time of renewal.
By Madison Cawein · First published 1907 · Genre: Nature Poetry, Lyric Poetry, Romanticism · 296 words
First lines
(After the German of Goethe, _Faust_, II)
When on the mountain tops ray-crowned Apollo Turns his swift arrows, dart on glittering dart, Let but a rock glint green, the wild goats follow Glad-grazing shyly on each sparse-grown part.
Rolled into plunging torrents spring the fountains; And slope and vale and meadowland grow green; While on ridg'd levels of a hundred mountains, Far fleece by fleece, the woolly flocks convene.
With measured stride, deliberate and steady, The scattered cattle seek the beetling steep, But shelter for th' assembled herd is ready In many hollows that the walled rocks heap:
What this Textopian page supports
Spring 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: Nature Poetry, Lyric Poetry, Romanticism, Pastoral, Symbolism
- Length: 296 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Spring by Madison Cawein
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Spring?
- How does this poem by Madison Cawein fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Nature Poetry first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Nature Poetry — The poem vividly describes the beauty and renewal of nature in spring, focusing on landscapes, flora, and fauna.
- Lyric Poetry — The work expresses personal emotions and reflections on the themes of spring and rebirth.
- Romanticism — The poem embodies Romantic ideals, emphasizing emotion, nature, and the sublime.
- Pastoral — The depiction of rural life and nature aligns with pastoral themes, celebrating the simplicity and beauty of the countryside.
Tags
Nature Poetry · Seasonal Themes · Spring Equinox · Hopeful Imagery · Renewal Motifs · Garden Settings · Floral Metaphors · Birdsong Descriptions · Morning Light · New Life Symbolism · Feminine Imagery · Pastoral Scenes