Poem Analysis #1
A BREATH OF THE WOODS by Lilian Leveridge
Welcome to Poetry analysis in which I analyse and dissect selected poems, A Breath of the Woods is a poem written by Lilian, a British born canadian. Leveridge was born on April 15, 1879, in England. She eventually emigrated to Canada and pursued a career in education. Leveridge worked as a teacher for many years before she began to gain recognition as a poet.
As a writer, Leveridge primarily explored themes related to nature, human experiences, and emotions. Her poetry often reflected her observations of Canadian landscapes and her deep appreciation for the natural world.
Today's poem is A Breath of the Woods. The title immediately sets the scene in a forest, suggesting a tranquil and enchanting environment. The woods represent a sanctuary where the speaker finds solace and connection with nature.
The poem is structured in a flowing and lyrical manner, the stanza's rhyme is highlighted in 2 forms ABAB and ABCB with a rhythmic cadence that mimics the natural sounds of the forest using aliteration with the T sound and S sound. The language is rich and descriptive, drawing the reader into the sensory experience of the woodland environment. the ryhming happens at the beginning of the second stanza (seeking, answering, learning) the third stanza (listening, lilting, tinkling), the forth stanza( Dreaming, dancing, drinking) and the fifth stanza (learning, making)
The speaker reminisces about their childhood as a "woodland child," suggesting a time of innocence, curiosity, and exploration. This innocence is further emphasized through comparisons to a shy fawn and the untamed wildness of the winds. fawn in this context can mean a young deer and also a brownish color that reminds us of the earth and tree trunks.
Throughout the poem, the speaker engages with nature through their senses. They listen to the songs of thrushes, bluebirds, and the cadence of a cataract, highlighting the auditory richness of the forest. The mention of the brooklet "tinkling from stone to stone" appeals to the sense of sound and movement, creating a rhythmic and soothing atmosphere.
The poem is replete with vivid imagery that brings the natural world to life. From "vales of shadow" to "hills of light," the justoposition between wild and shy, light and dark imagery adds depth and dimension to the speaker's experiences. The mention of "wells of wonder" and "Nectars of new delight" suggests a sense of awe and discovery in the face of nature's beauty and mystery.
The speaker's exploration of nature is not merely physical but also intellectual and spiritual. They seek to understand the language of flowers, symbolizing a deeper connection with the natural world and a desire to unlock its secrets.
This poem is highly musical and the everytime I read it, I am transported to a peaceful forest where I can be connected to mother earth...
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