The Dream of Christ
The poem explores a dreamlike journey through celestial and earthly realms, reflecting on themes of divinity, redemption, and the contrast between the sacred and the profane. The speaker describes a vision of a woman experiencing a trance-like state, where she traverses a landscape filled with beauty and spirituality, symbolized by the moon and stars. As she wanders, she encounters remnants of ancient civilizations, their once-mighty idols now reduced to ruins, representing the decline of false gods and the triumph of a new spiritual awakening. The imagery evokes a sense of nostalgia for a time when faith was pure, juxtaposed with the decay of past idolatries. The dream transitions to serene pastoral scenes, where nature flourishes, and the presence of wise figures suggests enlightenment. The speaker reflects on the birth of a holy child in a humble setting, emphasizing the significance of humility and love in the face of worldly struggles. Ultimately, the dream concludes with the awakening to a winter moon, symbolizing hope and the promise of peace and love, resonating through the night. The work encapsulates a profound spiritual journey, celebrating the transformative power of faith and the enduring light of divine love amidst darkness.
By Madison Cawein · First published 1905 · Genre: Religious Poetry, Symbolism, Romanticism · 549 words
First lines
I saw her twins of eyelids listless swoon Mesmeric eyes, Like the mild lapsing of a lulling tune On wide surprise, While slow the graceful presence of a moon Mellowed the purple skies.
And had she dreamed or had in fancy gone As one who sought To hail the influx of a godly dawn Of heavenly thought, Trod trembling o'er old sainted hill and lawn With intense angels fraught?
What this Textopian page supports
The Dream of Christ is listed on Textopian as a short story by Madison Cawein, dated 1905 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Madison Cawein
- Date: 1905 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious Poetry, Symbolism, Romanticism, Lyrical Poetry, Visionary Poetry
- Length: 549 words
- Structure: 1 section, 9 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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- Work identity for The Dream of Christ by Madison Cawein
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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- Deity by Madison Cawein
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- The Fourth Shepherd by Joyce Kilmer
- Thurifer by Joyce Kilmer
- I Went To Heaven by Emily Dickinson
Genres
- Religious Poetry — The poem explores themes of divinity, spirituality, and the figure of Christ, making it central to religious poetry.
- Symbolism — The use of vivid imagery and metaphors to convey deeper meanings aligns with the characteristics of Symbolism.
- Romanticism — The emphasis on emotion, nature, and the sublime reflects the ideals of the Romantic movement.
- Lyrical Poetry — The poem's musical quality and personal expression categorize it as lyrical poetry.
Tags
Christianity · Poetry · Spirituality · Philosophy · Mystery · Faith · Doubt · Existentialism · Psychology · Symbolism · Metaphor · Imagery