Serenity and Symbolism in Hilda Conkling's "Wood Dove"
A poem of peace and serenity which we need in this tumultuous world.
Serenity and Symbolism in Hilda Conkling's "Wood Dove"
Wood Dove
by Hilda Conkling
When morn in breaking
When the sun is rising over
dark, blue hills,
When mists go by
I hear a voice say
Coo . . . coo . . .
It is Mistress Wood Dove
Hidden and alone,
Glad of morning.
I call,
She answers:
Morning is sweeter
For her voice.
“Wood Dove” is one of those poems by Hilda Conkling that combines the quiet, intimate mood of the voice of the poem with nature, a wood dove. It comes bright in a peaceful dawn when the rising sun and clearing of mists over steep blue hills announce, and one might almost say, the beginning of the day. Serenity fills the air, creating a sense of peace and stillness.
The poem delves into the peace and bliss that accompany the early morning. The speaker is not observing, but noting all these natural elements that bring comfort through their predictability and beauty, inviting the reader to share in this conscious appreciation.
The soft sound of the wood dove brings a deep, intimate experience to the scene. The dove is portrayed as “Mistress Wood Dove,” evoking a note of respect and familiarity with the individual. She is there in secret, in solitude, yet the speaker senses her presence.
This interaction is significant. The speaker calls, and the dove answers. It’s a mutual recognition and appreciation. The poem presents the idea that the dove’s call sweetens the mornings for the speaker, and the speaker’s presence enriches the dove’s experience of the new day.
In Conkling’s poem, nature is not just a backdrop, but a fragile yet unnoticed beauty. The wood dove, often overlooked, symbolizes the gentle beauty of nature for attentive observers. The poem emphasizes small, quiet moments and their impact on well-being and connection, encouraging self-reflection.
The structure is simple, reflecting the scene’s simplicity. It is simple in its nature, for it evokes such deep emotional resonance as one reflects on one’s own experience of nature and the peace it may bring—however fleeting. These moments are valuable to the poem, even though they are fleeting, offering suggestions of harmony and contentment, characteristics of pastoral poetry.
Symbolic Meaning of a Dove:
The dove is an ancient symbol with many connotations, varying according to culture and context. Doves are seen as icons of peace, love, and purity. A dove is commonly associated with peace. The identification becomes most widespread during war and conflict when a dove carrying an olive branch symbolizes reconciliation and the cessation of hostilities.
Doves are linked to love and faithfulness. This association arises from the fact that doves are monogamous and mate for life. That is why they often appear in artistic works or literature as a symbol of romantic love or relationships. Their white feathers bring the purity and innocence of these creatures to their association.
Derek, you are a wealthy man
The reason I have Parrot companions is exactly that, Avians when they bond their Loyalty is unfaltering! I have few true Friends yet the ones I have know they can count on me as I can them.
Loyalty is something I tried to explain to my Children, I don't believe Loyalty can be Taught, it's something that is part of You! Social Services wanted to put my friend in a Hospice when he had Cancer, He didn't want that and told them so ! I had to literally fight them legally to get him back to his home ( an apartment below mine) I won . He eventually got the all clear, sadly due to his treatment and his refusal to give up alcohol early onset dementia hit him. Then he got necrosis of the mandible, so another operation to remove half of his lower jawbone. With the help of another of his Friends I was able to care for him for almost five years before he passed at his home. We had walkie talkies rather than using the phone all the time, sadly I ended up in hospital overnight ( Dehydration and exhaustion) I was able to persuade the Dr to allow me to go home after a bit of sleep and intravenous fluids, etc etc. I got home approx 4am and checked on him as our other friend had left almost an hour before, he was settled fine. I woke up at 10am ( I normally checked him at 6am) our friend had arrived as I got to my friends door we went inside he wasn't in his bed or his bedroom or bathroom I checked his lounge and he was kneeling by his telephone table already passed away, police,ambulance ,etc then the van that took him for a post mortem . The guilt I felt was terrible although I knew I had done everything I could to keep him happy in his own home where he had stated he wanted to be when he passed. A good man, a good Friend, and a pain in the bloody neck at times. But there's a Code of Friendship myself and my Friends stand by." Not just friends in the good times, not just friends when it suits us, but friends whether Rich or Poor, friends during Sickness and Health. Friends to the End then Until we meet again! RIP Sean/David.