Poem Analysis - Fancies

A World Reimagined: Introduction

Lucy Maud Montgomery's "Fancies" is a whimsical and imaginative poem that seeks to find the source of beauty in the natural world. The poem presents a series of charming associations between flowers and human emotions or experiences, creating a sense of interconnectedness between nature and the human spirit. Its tone is primarily optimistic and celebratory, suffused with a gentle wonder. While the poem maintains a consistent sense of awe, the slight shift from general observation to specific floral examples adds a layer of intimacy and personalization. Overall, the poem invites readers to see the world with a sense of childlike wonder, finding profound meaning in simple beauty.

The Language of Flowers: Love and Connection

One of the central themes of "Fancies" is the exploration of love in its various forms. The poem presents multiple facets of love through its floral associations. The "poppies aflame with gold and red" symbolize the passionate "kisses of lovers," while the "rose," considered the "flowers of the earth above," embodies a "perfect, rapturous thought of love." The suggestion is not merely that flowers are beautiful, but that they are tangible expressions of the most powerful human emotion. Further, the "sweetness of all true friendship" is captured in the "breath of the mignonette," highlighting the importance of platonic love and camaraderie. The theme of love extends beyond romance and emphasizes the emotional bonds that enrich human existence.

Dreams and Prayers: Innocence and Purity

Another prominent theme is the representation of innocence and purity, primarily associated with the beginning of life and spiritual yearning. The "purple pansies with dew-drops pearled" are likened to "rainbow dreams of a youngling world," suggesting the untainted imagination and boundless possibilities of youth. The "lily, white as a star apart," symbolizes "the first pure prayer of a virgin heart." This image connects innocence to spirituality, implying that the purest form of devotion comes from a place of unblemished understanding. Similarly, the "daisies that dance and twinkle so" represent "the laughter of children in long ago," linking joy and innocence to the carefree spirit of childhood. These floral symbols emphasize the beauty and value of these ephemeral states of being.

Souls of Things: Beauty and Remembrance

The poem's overarching theme revolves around the idea that beauty and significance transcend the physical world. The opening and closing lines of the poem, which frame the entire work, declare that "surely the flowers of a hundred springs / Are simply the souls of beautiful things!" This statement serves as the central thesis, suggesting that flowers are not merely objects of aesthetic appeal, but vessels containing the essence of beauty itself. The repeated use of the word "surely" creates a sense of certainty and conviction, as if the speaker is sharing a profound and undeniable truth. The flowers act as symbols representing the continuity of beauty through time, preserving the "souls" of past experiences and emotions. The "souls of beautiful things" can therefore be understood as the enduring legacy of love, friendship, innocence, and joy.

Floral Language: Symbols in Bloom

The poem employs rich imagery, with each flower serving as a potent symbol. The repeated references to colour, such as "gold and red" poppies and "purple pansies," contribute to the vividness of the imagery, enhancing the poem's overall sensory appeal. The "lily, white as a star apart," is a particularly striking image, evoking a sense of ethereal beauty and transcendent purity. The personification of flowers, such as the "daisies that dance and twinkle," further animates the natural world, infusing it with human-like qualities. Moreover, the choice of specific flowers, like the rose and the narcissus, which have long-established symbolic associations in literature and art, adds depth and complexity to the poem. Why does the author include "the white narcissus", could it perhaps be a tongue-in-cheek reflection on the author's own writing and style? This open-ended question regarding the narcissus, with its association to vanity, can be considered in the context of author's self-awareness about her artistic output.

Echoes of Beauty: Conclusion

"Fancies" is a testament to the enduring power of beauty and the interconnectedness of nature and the human experience. Through its vivid imagery and symbolic associations, the poem encourages readers to perceive the natural world as a repository of profound meaning and emotional resonance. Montgomery's poem does more than simply describe flowers; it imbues them with the essence of human emotion, creating a beautiful tapestry of love, innocence, and enduring beauty. The poem's significance lies in its ability to awaken a sense of wonder and to remind us that even the simplest things, like flowers, can hold the "souls of beautiful things." Ultimately, the poem offers a hopeful vision of a world where beauty transcends time and continues to inspire and uplift the human spirit.