Poems
1917
''Poems by Edward Thomas'' is a collection of poetry by Edward Thomas, published during the early 20th century. The book encapsulates a range of themes, mainly focusing on nature, human emotions, and the passage of time, reflecting the sensibilities of the period surrounding World War I. Edward Thomas, often recognized for his nuanced and vivid portrayals of the English landscape, offers readers insight into the contemplative relationship between humans and their environment. The poems within this collection exhibit a rich tapestry of imagery and introspection, exploring the beauty and melancholy of rural life. Thomas's work often draws on his experiences and observations, as seen in pieces like ''Adlestrop,'' which evokes a moment of stillness and reflection on a simple train stop, and ''The Owl,'' which contrasts solitude with the melancholy of remembered companionship. Through a blend of nostalgia, tranquility, and a poignant awareness of loss, each poem reveals the deeper implications of everyday experiences and the natural world, making this collection resonate with those inclined towards lyrical expression and the exploration of universal themes.
Editions
X-Ray
“To-day I thinkOnly with scents, - scents dead leaves yield,And bracken, and wild carrot's seed,And the square mustard field;Odours that riseWhen the spade wounds the root of tree,Rose, currant, raspberry, or goutweed,Rhubarb or celery;The smoke's smell, too,Flowing from where a bonfire burnsThe dead, the waste, the dangerous,And all to sweetness turns.It is enoughTo smell, to crumble the dark earth,While the robin sings over againSad songs of Autumn mirth."- A poem called DIGGING.””
— Edward Thomas
“Tall NettlesTall nettles cover up, as they have doneThese many springs, the rusty harrow, the ploughLong worn out, and the roller made of stone :Only the elm butt tops the nettles now.This corner of the farmyard I like most:As well as any bloom upon a flowerI like the dust on the nettles, never lostExcept to prove the sweetness of a shower.””
— Edward Thomas
“Harry, you know at nightThe larks in Castle AlleySing from the attic's heightAs if the electric lightWere the true sun above a summer valley:Whistle, don't knock, tonight.I shall come early, Kate:And we in Castle AlleyWill sit close out of sightAlone, and ask no lightOf lamp or sun above a summer valley:Tonight I can stay late.””
— Edward Thomas
“The sky would be nothing more to his eyeThan he, in any case, is to the sky.””
— Edward Thomas
