The Water-Maid by Madison Cawein
The narrative unfolds in a mystical setting where a water spirit, depicted as ethereal and enchanting, emerges from a lake. She is adorned with white lilies and embodies both beauty and danger. The scene is rich with imagery, emphasizing the contrast between the serene environment and the underlying threat posed by the spirit. As she sings, her voice captivates the surrounding nature, particularly the lilies, which seem to respond to her melody. The water spirit's song is described as wild and alluring, drawing in a child who is both innocent and vulnerable. The child, entranced by her beauty, approaches her, unaware of the peril that lies ahead. The climax reveals the darker aspect of the water spirit's nature, as she ensnares the child with her hair, symbolizing the seductive yet lethal allure of the supernatural. This act serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of temptation and the hidden threats that can accompany beauty. The work explores themes of innocence, seduction, and the duality of nature, presenting a vivid portrayal of the water spirit's enchanting yet treacherous character. The imagery and lyrical quality of the language enhance the haunting atmosphere, leaving a lasting impression of both wonder and foreboding.
By Madison Cawein · First published 1907 · Genre: Poetry, Fantasy, Romance · 221 words
First lines
There she rose as white as death, Stars above and stars beneath; Where the ripples brake in splendor To a million, million starlets Twinkling on lake-lilies tender, Rocking to the ripple barlets. She, brow-belted with white lilies, Rose and oared a shining shoulder To a downward-purpling boulder: With slim fingers soft and milky, Haled her from the spray-sprent lilies To a ledge, and sitting silky Sang unto the list'ning lilies, Sang and sang beneath the heaven, Belted, wreathed with lilies seven; Falsely sang a wild, wild ditty To a wool-white moon; Till a child both frail and pretty Found her singing on the boulder, -- Dark locks on a milky shoulder, -- 'Neath the wool-white moon. And the creature singing there Strangled him in her long hair.
What this Textopian page supports
The Water-Maid 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, Fantasy, Romance, Mythology, Nature Writing
- Length: 221 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Water-Maid 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, employing rhythmic and lyrical language typical of poetry.
- Fantasy — The presence of a water-maid and magical elements suggests a fantasy genre.
- Romance — Themes of beauty and allure, along with the interaction between the water-maid and the child, indicate romantic elements.
- Mythology — The character of the water-maid draws on mythological themes and archetypes.
Tags
Poetry · Nature · Water · Symbolism · Imagery · Metaphor · Personification · Femininity · Mystery · Romance · Fantasy · Mythology