An Old Refrain by Thomas Nelson Page
The work explores themes of nostalgia, love, and the passage of time through a lyrical and reflective lens. The speaker reminisces about a past love, evoking vivid imagery of nature and the seasons, which serve as a backdrop for his longing. The refrain emphasizes the speaker's quest for his beloved, expressing a deep yearning and a sense of urgency in his search. As the speaker recalls the beauty of meadows, apple trees, and the sounds of nature, he intertwines these elements with his emotional state, suggesting that the external world mirrors his internal feelings. The repetition of the refrain underscores his obsession and the idealization of his lady-love, portraying her as an ethereal figure who embodies purity and grace. The narrative progresses through various natural scenes, each evoking memories and emotions tied to the speaker's love. The imagery of bees, birds, and the gentle flow of a brook enhances the romantic atmosphere, while the mention of knights and ladies introduces a sense of chivalric idealism. The speaker's conviction in the purity and beauty of his love is unwavering, as he believes that their connection is destined. He expresses a sense of hope and faith that, despite the distance or uncertainty, their love will ultimately prevail. The work culminates in a powerful assertion that finding his true love equates to finding heaven, reinforcing the spiritual and transcendent nature of love. Overall, the piece captures the essence of longing and the timeless quest for love, using rich imagery and a melodic structure to convey deep emotional resonance.
By Thomas Nelson Page · First published 1903 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Nature Writing · 678 words
First lines
It seems to me as I think of her, That my youth has come again: I hear the breath of summer stir The leaves in the old refrain: "Oh! my Lady-love! Oh! my Lady-love! Oh! where can my Lady be? I will seek my Love, with the wings of a dove, And pray her to love but me."
The flower-kissed meadows all once more Are green with grass and plume; The apple-trees again are hoar With fragrant snow of bloom. Oh! my Lady-love! Oh! my Lady-love! Oh! where can my Lady be? etc.
What this Textopian page supports
An Old Refrain is listed on Textopian as a short story by Thomas Nelson Page, dated 1903 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Thomas Nelson Page
- Date: 1903 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romance, Nature Writing, Lyric, Sentimentalism
- Length: 678 words
- Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs lyrical language, focusing on themes of love and nature.
- Romance — The central theme revolves around love and longing for a beloved, characteristic of the romance genre.
- Nature Writing — The poem vividly describes natural imagery and settings, emphasizing the beauty of the environment.
- Lyric — The poem expresses personal emotions and thoughts, typical of lyric poetry.
Tags
Southern literature · American history · Civil War · nostalgia · family · tradition · rural life · memory · loss · identity · regionalism · folklore