Envoi by Oliver Herford (1911)
The poem explores the interaction between the seasons, personifying Winter and Spring as they engage in a dialogue about the transition of time. Spring expresses a desire for Winter to linger longer to aid in the growth of her garden. However, Winter, misinterpreting Spring's plea, returns to cover the flowers with snow, leading to their demise. The narrative captures the tension between the two seasons, highlighting themes of misunderstanding and the consequences of actions taken too literally. Spring's sorrow upon discovering the frozen flowers underscores the fragility of life and the impact of timing in nature. The work ultimately reflects on the cyclical nature of the seasons and the inevitable changes that come with them.
By Oliver Herford · First published 1911 · Genre: Poetry, Nature, Fantasy · 122 words
First lines
"_Oh, Winter, must you leave so soon? " Said Spring as Winter turned to go.
"If only you could stay till June, And help to make my garden grow._"
_So back again that night he goes To see the flowers, how they grow.
Poor things, they looked so cold, he throws O'er them a coverlet -- of snow._
What this Textopian page supports
Envoi is listed on Textopian as a poem by Oliver Herford, dated 1911 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Oliver Herford
- Date: 1911 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Nature, Fantasy, Children's Literature, Allegory
- Length: 122 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- The Child In The Orchard by Edward Thomas
- To Others Than You by Dylan Thomas
- When Like A Running Grave by Dylan Thomas
- The Oyster by Oliver Herford
- Impression by Oscar Wilde
- Not Over Kind by Edna St Vincent Millay
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Nature — The themes revolve around seasonal change and the relationship between Winter and Spring, highlighting natural elements.
- Fantasy — The personification of seasons and their interactions create a fantastical narrative.
- Children's Literature — The simple language and themes make it suitable for a younger audience.
Tags
Poetry · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Literary Fiction · Verse Novel · Epistolary · Autobiographical · Memoir · Coming of Age · Self-Discovery · Identity Crisis