Poems of Walter de la Mare: Exploring the Enchanting World of a Master Poet

Walter de la Mare was a British poet and writer who is known for his hauntingly beautiful poetry that often delves into themes of mystery, the supernatural, and the subconscious mind. His poems are characterized by their lyrical language, vivid imagery, and deep sense of atmosphere, which have captivated readers for generations.

The Life and Works of Walter de la Mare

Walter de la Mare was born in Charlton, Kent, England in 1873. He began writing poetry at a young age and published his first collection, "Songs of Childhood," in 1902. Over the course of his career, de la Mare produced numerous volumes of poetry, as well as short stories and novels. His poetry is often compared to that of the Romantic poets, such as William Wordsworth and Samuel Taylor Coleridge, for its exploration of nature, the supernatural, and the human experience.

Examples of Poems by Walter de la Mare

Here are a few examples of Walter de la Mare's enchanting poems that showcase his mastery of language and imagery:

"The Listeners"

"Is there anybody there?" said the Traveller,

Knocking on the moonlit door;

And his horse in the silence champed the grasses

Of the forest's ferny floor:

One of de la Mare's most famous poems, "The Listeners" captures the sense of mystery and otherworldliness that permeates much of his work. The poem invites readers to ponder the existence of unseen presences and the unknown forces that shape our lives.

"Silver"

Slowly, silently, now the moon

Walks the night in her silver shoon;

This way, and that, she peers, and sees

Silver fruit upon silver trees;

In "Silver," de la Mare evokes a sense of wonder and magic as he describes the moonlight casting a silver glow over the landscape. The poem captures the ethereal beauty of the natural world and invites readers to marvel at its mysteries.

The Legacy of Walter de la Mare

Walter de la Mare's poetry continues to inspire readers with its evocative language and timeless themes. His work has influenced generations of poets and writers, and his unique vision of the world has left a lasting impact on the literary landscape. Whether exploring the depths of the human soul or the wonders of the natural world, de la Mare's poetry invites readers to step into a world of enchantment and mystery.

Through his poems, Walter de la Mare invites us to see the world in a new light, to embrace the unknown, and to marvel at the beauty that surrounds us. His enduring legacy as a master poet ensures that his work will continue to captivate and inspire readers for years to come.