On Silver Nights by Virna Sheard
The poem explores themes of love, memory, and the ethereal connection between the speaker and a beloved figure. It begins with the speaker's restlessness on nights illuminated by the moon, which evokes a longing to reunite with a loved one. The moonlight serves as a catalyst for nostalgia, prompting the speaker to recall past moments shared with this person. As the speaker descends the stairs, there is a sense of urgency and excitement, suggesting that the memories are vivid and alive. The imagery of the night creates a magical atmosphere, where the speaker feels a deep connection to nature and a sense of freedom. This connection enhances the emotional weight of the reunion, as the speaker feels intertwined with the wildness of the night. The beloved, who has been absent, is depicted as returning from a divine realm, symbolizing a transcendent love that persists beyond physical separation. The speaker's joy is palpable as they envision walking together again through familiar landscapes, reinforcing the idea that love can transcend time and space. Ultimately, the poem captures the interplay between memory and longing, illustrating how the beauty of the night can awaken deep emotions and facilitate a reunion with cherished moments from the past. The imagery of silver nights serves as a metaphor for the enduring nature of love and the power of memory to bring solace and joy.
By Virna Sheard · First published 1926 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Nature · 211 words
First lines
On silver nights I cannot sleep; -- / The ancient moon from far above, / Bids me arise, and run and keep / A rendezvous with one I love.
And in my heart a little song / Swings to and fro its clear refrain, / While down the stairs I haste along / As though the past were mine again.
Then is my spirit so beguiled / By all the night's white witchery, / That I am kin to all things wild, / And part of all things that are free! --
Then he comes back, -- who long ago / Left these green paths his steps had trod; / Yes -- he comes back, -- I know! -- I know! -- / Light-footed from the fields of God.
What this Textopian page supports
On Silver Nights is listed on Textopian as a poem by Virna Sheard, dated 1926 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Virna Sheard
- Date: 1926 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romance, Nature, Spiritual, Nostalgia
- Length: 211 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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- Work identity for On Silver Nights by Virna Sheard
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Romance — The themes revolve around love and longing, depicting a romantic rendezvous.
- Nature — The imagery of the moon, garden, and natural elements highlights a connection to the natural world.
- Spiritual — References to 'the fields of God' suggest a spiritual or transcendent theme.
Tags
mystery · romance · drama · suspense · adventure · coming of age · friendship · family · self-discovery · conflict · emotional · narrative