Spring (Poem by Duncan Campbell Scott)

Spring

(Song)

By Duncan Campbell Scott

Sing me a song of the early spring,

Of the yellow light where the clear air cools,

Of the lithe willows bourgeoning

                    In the amber pools.

Sing me a song of the spangled dells,

Where hepaticas tremble in starry groups,

Of the adder-tongue swinging its golden bells

                    As the light wind swoops.

Sing me a song of the shallow lakes,

Of the hollow fall of the nimble rill,

Of the trolling rapture the robin wakes

                    On the windy hill.

Sing me a song of the gleaming swift,

Of the vivid Maryland-yellow-throat,

Of the vesper sparrow’s silver drift

                    From the rise remote.

Sing me a song of the crystal cage,

Where the tender plants in the frames are set,

Where kneels my love Armitage,

                    Planting the pleasant mignonette.

Sing me a song of the glow afar,

Of the misty air and the crocus light,

Of the new moon following a silver star

                    Through the early night.

Poem Analysis:

"Spring" by Duncan Campbell Scott is a lyrical celebration of the arrival of spring, capturing the essence of the season through vivid imagery and evocative language. The poem invites readers to revel in the sights, sounds, and sensations of springtime, painting a picture of renewal, growth, and awakening in the natural world.

Invocation of Spring: The poem begins with an invocation, as the speaker calls for a song of early spring. This sets the tone for the rest of the poem, signaling a celebration of the season and its beauty.

Imagery of Renewal: Scott uses rich and vibrant imagery to depict the renewal of life that comes with spring. He describes the "yellow light" and "clear air cools," painting a picture of a refreshing and invigorating atmosphere. The emergence of new growth is symbolized by the "lithe willows bourgeoning" and the "hepaticas tremble in starry groups," conveying a sense of vitality and rejuvenation.

Natural Delights: The poem celebrates the various delights of spring, from the "amber pools" and "golden bells" of flowers to the "shallow lakes" and "nimble rill" of flowing water. The imagery of birds such as the robin and the yellow-throat adds to the sense of joy and vitality, as they sing their songs and fill the air with music.

Human Presence in Nature: Amidst the celebration of nature, Scott includes a glimpse of human activity, with the mention of the speaker's love, Armitage, planting mignonette in a "crystal cage." This juxtaposition of human presence with the natural world highlights the interconnectedness of humanity and nature, as people engage in gardening and cultivation alongside the blossoming of spring.

Sense of Wonder and Beauty: Throughout the poem, there is a sense of wonder and appreciation for the beauty of spring. Scott's language is lyrical and evocative, capturing the magic and enchantment of the season. The imagery of the "crocus light" and the "new moon following a silver star" evokes a sense of awe and reverence for the natural world.

In conclusion, "Spring" by Duncan Campbell Scott is a lyrical ode to the arrival of spring, celebrating the renewal of life, the beauty of nature, and the sense of wonder and delight that comes with the changing of the seasons. Through its vivid imagery and evocative language, the poem invites readers to immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and sensations of springtime.