The Old Barn by Madison Cawein
The poem presents a vivid depiction of an old barn situated between an orchard and a spring, characterized by its gray exterior and wide windows filled with hay. The imagery evokes a sense of rural tranquility, with various elements of nature and animal life surrounding the barn. Inside, a Leghorn hen conceals a nest, while hornets glide through the sunlit loft, contributing to the lively atmosphere. The barn's environment is further animated by the presence of a rat, which stealthily navigates the corn-crib and stalls, highlighting the barn's rustic charm and the cycle of life within it. The poem transitions into a sensory exploration of the sounds and sights of the day and night. The relentless song of locusts signifies the heat of the day, while dusk brings a chorus of crickets, tree-toads, and frogs, painting a picture of a vibrant evening. The imagery of stars and the rich colors of the western sky enhance the serene setting. As night falls, the poem captures the essence of rural life with references to the moon, katydids, and the gentle rustle of wind through the trees. Fireflies create a magical ambiance, while the presence of cows and an owl adds to the pastoral scene. The overall tone reflects a deep appreciation for the simplicity and beauty of nature, encapsulating the essence of rural existence and the passage of time.
By Madison Cawein · First published 1902 · Genre: Poetry, Nature Writing, Pastoral · 333 words
First lines
Low, swallow-swept and gray, Between the orchard and the spring, All its wide windows overflowing hay, And crannied doors a-swing, The old barn stands to-day.
Deep in its hay the Leghorn hides A round white nest; and, humming soft On roof and rafter, or its log-rude sides, Black in the sun-shot loft, The building hornet glides.
What this Textopian page supports
The Old Barn 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, Nature Writing, Pastoral, Lyric, Descriptive
- Length: 333 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and imagery typical of poetry.
- Nature Writing — The poem vividly describes rural and natural elements, focusing on the barn and its surroundings.
- Pastoral — The themes reflect rural life and the beauty of the countryside, characteristic of pastoral literature.
- Lyric — The poem expresses personal feelings and observations about nature and rural life.
Tags
Rural Setting · Poetry Collection · Nature Imagery · Mood and Atmosphere · Symbolism · Imagery · Figurative Language · Metaphor · Simile · Personification · Alliteration · Assonance