You’ll Travel Far and Wide (Poem by Gilbert Parker)

You’ll Travel Far and Wide

By Gilbert Parker

You’ll travel far and wide, dear, but you’ll come back again,

You’ll come back to your father and your mother in the glen,

Although we should be lyin’ ‘neath the heather grasses then — 

You’ll be comin’ back, my darlin’!

You’ll see the icebergs sailin’ along the wintry foam,

The white hair of the breakers, and the wild swans as they roam;

But you’ll not forget the rowan beside your father’s home

You’ll be comin’ back, my darlin’!

New friends will clasp your hand, dear, new faces on you smile;

You’ll bide with them and love them, but you’ll long for us the while;

For the word across the water, and the farewell by the stile — 

For the true heart’s here, my darlin’!

You’ll hear the wild birds singin’ beneath a brighter sky,

The roof-tree of your home, dear, it will be grand and high;

But you’ll hunger for the hearthstone where, a child, you used to lie — 

You’ll be comin’ back, my darlin’!

And when your foot is weary, and when your heart is sore,

And you come back to the moor that spreads beyand your father’s door,

There’ll be many an ancient comrade to greet you on the shore — 

At your comin’ back, my darlin’!

Ah, the hillock cannot cover, and the grass it cannot hide

The love that never changeth, whatever wind or tide;

And though you’ll not be seein’, we’ll be standin’ by your side — 

You’ll be comin’ back, my darlin’!

O, there’s no home like the old home, there’s no pillow like the breast

You slumbered on in childhood, like a young bird in the nest:

We are livin’ still and waitin’, and we’re hopin’ for the best — 

Ah, you’re comin’ back, my darlin’ — comin’ back!

Poem Analysis:

Gilbert Parker's poem "You'll Travel Far and Wide" is a heartfelt exploration of the enduring bonds of family and home amidst the adventures and journeys of life. Let's delve into the poem's themes, imagery, and emotional resonance:

Longing for Home: The central theme of the poem revolves around the longing for home and the comfort of familial love. Despite the allure of distant lands and new experiences, the speaker reassures their loved one that they will always have a place to return to—a place filled with familiar faces, cherished memories, and unwavering support.

Emotional Resonance: Through evocative language and poignant imagery, Parker captures the depth of emotion experienced by both the traveler and those left behind. The imagery of the "rowan beside your father's home" and the "hearthstone where, a child, you used to lie" evokes a sense of nostalgia and yearning for the familiar sights and sounds of home.

Transient Connections vs. Eternal Bonds: While the traveler may encounter new friends and experiences on their journey, the poem emphasizes the enduring nature of familial bonds. The speaker acknowledges that new connections will be made, but reassures the traveler that the love and warmth of home will remain constant, regardless of time or distance.

Sense of Belonging: The poem celebrates the sense of belonging and rootedness that comes from being part of a loving family and community. Despite venturing into the unknown, the traveler is reminded of the unbreakable ties that bind them to their home and loved ones—a sentiment that provides solace and strength throughout their journey.

Hope and Reunion: Amidst the bittersweet longing for home, the poem also conveys a sense of hope and anticipation for the traveler's return. The speaker expresses confidence that, despite the passage of time and the distance traveled, the traveler will eventually come back to their roots, where they will be welcomed with open arms and warm hearts.

Symbolism of Nature: Parker employs nature imagery, such as "icebergs sailing along the wintry foam" and "wild birds singing beneath a brighter sky," to contrast the allure of distant lands with the enduring beauty of the traveler's homeland. These images serve to underscore the timeless appeal of home and the natural landscapes that hold deep personal significance.

In conclusion, "You'll Travel Far and Wide" is a poignant reflection on the universal themes of love, longing, and belonging. Gilbert Parker's evocative verses resonate with readers by capturing the complex emotions associated with leaving home, embarking on new adventures, and ultimately finding solace in the enduring bonds of family and home.