Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"In February" is a poem by Alice Meynell that explores the melancholic beauty of winter. The poem was published in 1891 as part of Meynell's collection of poetry, "Preludes."

The poem begins with the line, "This is the weather the cuckoo likes," which sets the tone for the rest of the poem. The speaker describes the cold and dampness of February, but also notes that there is a certain beauty in this weather. The second stanza paints a vivid picture of winter landscapes, with "damp fields," "grey woods," and "watery sunsets." These descriptions are tinged with sadness, as the speaker notes the absence of the flowers and warmth of spring.

The third stanza turns to the animals that inhabit this winter landscape, and the speaker notes how they adapt to the harsh weather. The fourth stanza takes a more personal turn, as the speaker reflects on their own feelings in this season. They feel a sense of solitude and introspection, as they contemplate the "unanswered question" of life.

The final stanza returns to the natural world, as the speaker notes the presence of the "hardy primrose" and "patient snowdrop" that survive and even thrive in this season. This suggests that despite the melancholic tone of the poem, there is still hope and resilience in nature.

In terms of poetic devices, Meynell uses vivid and sensory language to paint a picture of the winter landscape, including imagery of "damp fields," "grey woods," and "watery sunsets." There is also a sense of repetition and contrast, with the speaker noting both the beauty and sadness of winter. The use of personification, such as the description of the weather being something the cuckoo likes, also adds depth to the poem.

Overall, "In February" is a poem that explores the melancholic beauty of winter, and the resilience of nature in the face of harsh weather.

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