Hymn to the Earth

Name: Hymn to the Earth
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge

The poem celebrates the Earth as a nurturing and life-giving force, personifying it as a goddess and mother. It opens with a hymn of praise, expressing reverence for the Earth and its beauty. The speaker describes the landscape, filled with green meadows, lakes, and mountains, emphasizing a deep connection to nature. The imagery evokes a sense of joy and tranquility, as the speaker feels refreshed and inspired by the natural world. The Earth is depicted as a source of life, with countless children and creatures thriving within its embrace. The relationship between the Earth and celestial bodies, such as the Sun and Moon, is highlighted, suggesting a cosmic connection. The poem reflects on the moment of creation, portraying the Earth as a bride to Heaven, celebrating the union that brought forth life. As the poem progresses, it explores themes of joy and sadness intertwined in the experience of existence. The speaker acknowledges the complexity of emotions that arise from the beauty of nature, leading to a profound sense of gratitude. The Earth is portrayed as a living entity, filled with vibrant life and energy, where rivers sing and animals roam freely. The work culminates in a recognition of the interconnectedness of all life, emphasizing the Earth’s role as a nurturing force that sustains and inspires. The speaker's emotional response to the beauty of the Earth serves as a reminder of the importance of nature in human experience, urging a celebration of the natural world and its wonders. The poem ultimately conveys a message of harmony between humanity and the Earth, advocating for appreciation and reverence for the environment.

By Samuel Taylor Coleridge · First published 1803 · Genre: Romantic Poetry, Nature Poetry, Lyric Poetry · 591 words

First lines

[IMITATED FROM STOLBERG'S _HYMNE AN DIE EKDE_]

HEXAMETERS

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Hymn to the Earth is listed on Textopian as a poem by Samuel Taylor Coleridge, dated 1803 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge
Date: 1803 CE
Language: English
Genres: Romantic Poetry, Nature Poetry, Lyric Poetry, Philosophical Poetry, Hymn
Length: 591 words
Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Romantic Poetry — The poem embodies the characteristics of Romanticism, emphasizing nature, emotion, and the sublime.
Nature Poetry — The central theme revolves around the celebration of the Earth and its beauty, typical of nature poetry.
Lyric Poetry — The personal expression of feelings and thoughts about nature aligns with the conventions of lyric poetry.
Philosophical Poetry — The poem explores deeper existential themes regarding the relationship between Earth and creation.