An English Wood by Robert Graves
The work presents a serene and idyllic portrayal of a secluded wood, emphasizing its tranquility and the absence of chaos or danger. The speaker describes a landscape where natural elements exist in harmony, free from the threats of mythical creatures or harsh realities. The imagery evokes a sense of peace, with soft lawns, ancient trees, and gentle breezes, creating a refuge from the outside world. The wood serves as a metaphor for a place of solace, where sorrows and fears are kept at bay. The absence of aggressive or predatory elements highlights the safety and comfort found within this environment. The speaker reflects on the stillness and beauty of the surroundings, suggesting a deep connection to nature and a longing for simplicity. As the narrative unfolds, the wood becomes a symbol of stability and permanence, contrasting with the tumultuous nature of life beyond its borders. The focus on the natural world invites contemplation and introspection, encouraging readers to appreciate the quiet moments and the inherent beauty of the environment. The work ultimately explores themes of refuge, the passage of time, and the relationship between humanity and nature. It invites readers to consider the importance of finding peace amidst life's complexities and the value of preserving spaces that offer tranquility and reflection.
By Robert Graves · First published 1942 · Genre: Poetry, Nature Writing, Lyrical · 226 words
First lines
This valley wood is hedged / With the set shape of things. / Here sorrows come not edged, / Here are no harpies fledged, / No roc has clapped his wings, / No gryphons wave their stings; / Here, poised in quietude / Calm elementals brood / On the set shape of things, / They fend away alarms / From this green wood. / Here nothing is that harms, / No bull with lungs of brass, / No toothed or spiny grass, / No tree whose clutching arms / Drink blood when travellers pass, / No mount of Glass. / No bardic tongues unfold / Satires or charms. / Only the lawns are soft, / The tree-stems, grave and old. / Slow branches sway aloft, / The evening air comes cold, / The sunset scatters gold. / Small grasses toss and bend, / Small pathways idly tend / Towards no certain end.
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and imagery typical of poetry.
- Nature Writing — The poem focuses on the natural landscape and the tranquility of the wood, emphasizing the beauty and serenity of nature.
- Lyrical — The emotional and reflective tone of the poem aligns with lyrical poetry, expressing feelings and thoughts about the environment.
- Symbolism — The poem uses symbols such as the wood and its elements to convey deeper meanings about peace and safety.
Tags
nature · tranquility · serenity · landscape · woods · poetry · calm · elementals · imagery · reflection · peace · greenery
What this Textopian page supports
An English Wood is listed on Textopian as a poem by Robert Graves, dated 1942 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Robert Graves
- Date: 1942 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Nature Writing, Lyrical, Symbolism, Imagism
- Length: 226 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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