Welcome to Poem of the Day – Lullaby by Louisa May Alcott
Louisa May Alcott was a gifted American writer and poet. Her poetry often reflects warmth, care, and a gentle tone. One of her most touching poems is Lullaby. It is soft, simple, and full of love. This article will explain the meaning of the poem and why it is special.
Lullaby Explanation
Explanation of the Poem
First Stanza
Now the day is done,
Fold thy little hands;
Let thy work be still,
All its joys and pains.
In this stanza, the speaker is telling a child that the day has ended. “Fold thy little hands” means it’s time to stop playing or working. The child is gently told to let go of the day’s events — both happy and sad. The tone is calm and caring.
Second Stanza
Dreamland opens wide,
Soft the breezes blow;
Watch and wait, my child,
Till the morning glow.
The second stanza paints a peaceful picture of sleep. “Dreamland” is a place of rest and imagination. The air is soft, like a gentle breeze. The child is asked to wait quietly through the night until the new day begins. This line gives a sense of safety and hope.
Themes of the Poem
1. Rest and Comfort
The poem focuses on the need for rest after a long day. It gives comfort to the child and offers a quiet space for sleep.
2. Parental Love
The speaker shows deep care and affection. The words are tender, like those of a loving parent or guardian guiding a child into peaceful sleep.
3. A Gentle Passage of Time
The poem moves from the end of day to the hope of a new morning. This reminds us that even after darkness, light returns. It is a message of peace and renewal.
Language and Style
The poem uses simple and soft words. This helps to create a gentle rhythm. It sounds like a real lullaby — easy to read aloud and calming to hear. The lines are short, and the pace is slow, making it perfect for bedtime reading.
There is a quiet beauty in the poem’s flow. It does not rely on strong rhymes but rather on tone and mood to create harmony.
Why This Poem Is Meaningful
Lullaby may be short, but it is full of emotion. It shows how words can soothe, protect, and bring peace. The poem speaks to children, but it also touches adults who remember the comfort of being cared for. It reminds us of the quiet power of kindness and the beauty of nighttime peace.
Conclusion
Louisa May Alcott’s Lullaby is a gentle and heartfelt poem. It offers warmth, rest, and love in just a few lines. Through soft images and soothing language, the poem creates a peaceful world where a child can rest safely and wait for a brighter morning. It is a lovely example of how poetry can bring calm and comfort to readers of all ages.
