To a Lady at a Spring by Thomas Nelson Page
The poem reflects on the themes of nature, beauty, and the passage of time, invoking the figure of Diana, the Roman goddess of the hunt. It begins by describing a serene woodland setting where Diana would retreat to a tranquil spring, surrounded by her nymphs. This idyllic scene is characterized by lush greenery and the refreshing presence of water, symbolizing purity and life. As the poem progresses, it conveys a sense of loss and nostalgia. Diana, once vibrant and active, has departed, leaving behind a solitary spring that remains untouched by time. The imagery shifts from the lively interactions of the goddess and her companions to a quiet, almost mournful atmosphere. The spring, once a lively gathering place, now stands as a relic of the past, haunted by memories of its former glory. The contrast between the past and present emphasizes the transient nature of beauty and the inevitability of change. The poem captures the essence of longing for what has been lost while simultaneously celebrating the enduring beauty of the natural world. The final lines suggest that although Diana is gone, the spring retains a sense of her presence, serving as a reminder of the connection between the divine and the earthly. Overall, the work encapsulates a meditation on the interplay between nature, mythology, and the passage of time, inviting readers to reflect on the beauty that persists even in the face of loss.
By Thomas Nelson Page · First published 1902 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Nature Writing · 157 words
First lines
Long aeons since, in leafy woodlands sweet, / Diana, weary with the eager chase, / Was wont to seek full oft some trysting-place / Loved of her rosy train; some cool retreat / Of crystal springs, deep-verdured from the heat / Of sultry noon, wherein each subtle grace / Of snowy form and radiant flower-face, / Narcissus-like, goddess and nymph might greet. / Diana long hath fleeted 'yond the main; / The founts which erst she loved are all bereft; / No more 'mid violet-banks her feet are set; / Silent her silvern bugle, fled her train; / One spot alone of all she loved is left: / This poplar-shaded spring is Goddess-haunted yet.
What this Textopian page supports
To a Lady at a Spring is listed on Textopian as a poem by Thomas Nelson Page, dated 1902 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Thomas Nelson Page
- Date: 1902 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romanticism, Nature Writing, Mythology, Lyric
- Length: 157 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)
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- Work identity for To a Lady at a Spring by Thomas Nelson Page
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing meter and rhyme, characteristic of poetry.
- Romanticism — The themes of nature, beauty, and nostalgia reflect the ideals of Romantic literature.
- Nature Writing — The vivid descriptions of the woodland setting and natural elements emphasize the beauty of nature.
- Mythology — The reference to Diana and the use of mythological elements indicate a connection to mythological themes.
Tags
nature · spring · romance · poetry · beauty · love · reflection · emotion · imagery · sentiment · elegance · serenity