A Day-Dream

Name: A Day-Dream
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge

The poem explores themes of memory, love, and the interplay between reality and imagination. The speaker reflects on a serene, idyllic scene involving a fountain, a willow tree, and two beloved figures, Mary and Asra. The imagery evokes a sense of tranquility and nostalgia, as the speaker recalls moments of joy and connection with these individuals. As the poem progresses, the setting shifts from a bright day to a warm, dark night, enhancing the dreamlike quality of the speaker's thoughts. The stars and the crescent moon contribute to the atmosphere of calm and intimacy. The speaker expresses deep affection for Asra, indicating a profound emotional bond that transcends physical presence. The imagery of shadows and firelight creates a cozy, intimate environment, suggesting a safe space for the speaker's reflections. The poem captures the essence of shared experiences and the comfort found in companionship, even in the absence of the physical forms of the loved ones. Ultimately, the work conveys a sense of longing and the power of imagination to preserve cherished memories. The speaker's connection to Mary and Asra remains strong, illustrating how love can endure beyond the constraints of time and space. The poem concludes with a gentle reminder of the beauty of these relationships, emphasizing the importance of emotional ties in shaping one's inner world.

By Samuel Taylor Coleridge · First published 1817 · Genre: Romanticism, Lyric Poetry, Nature Poetry · 429 words

First lines

My eyes make pictures, when they are shut: I see a fountain, large and fair, A willow and a ruined hut, And thee, and me and Mary there. O Mary! make thy gentle lap our pillow! Bend o'er us, like a bower, my beautiful green willow!

A wild-rose roofs the ruined shed, And that and summer well agree: And lo! where Mary leans her head, Two dear names carved upon the tree! And Mary's tears, they are not tears of sorrow: Our sister and our friend will both be here tomorrow.

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A Day-Dream is listed on Textopian as a poem by Samuel Taylor Coleridge, dated 1817 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge
Date: 1817 CE
Language: English
Genres: Romanticism, Lyric Poetry, Nature Poetry, Pastoral Poetry, Dream Poetry
Length: 429 words
Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

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Similar titles

Genres

Romanticism — The poem embodies the ideals of Romanticism through its emphasis on emotion, nature, and personal reflection.
Lyric Poetry — The work is characterized by its expression of personal feelings and thoughts, typical of lyric poetry.
Nature Poetry — Nature plays a central role in the imagery and themes, highlighting the beauty and tranquility of the natural world.
Pastoral Poetry — The poem reflects pastoral themes, depicting an idealized rural setting and the simplicity of country life.