Snow-Flakes

Read 'Snow-Flakes' by 'Fannie Isabelle Sherrick' and provide your summary and literary analysis in the comments section below.

Snow-Flakes by Fannie Isabelle Sherrick

I wonder what they are,
  These pretty, wayward things,
That o'er the gloomy earth
  The wind of heaven flings.
Each one a tiny star,
  And each a perfect gem;
What magic in the art
  That thus has fashioned them.
What beauty in the flake
  That falls upon my hand;
And yet this tiny thing
  My will cannot command.
No two are just alike,
  And yet they are the same;
I wonder if my thought
  Could give to each a name.
Unlike the fragile flowers
  That love the sun's warm rays,
These snow-flakes love the cold,
  And die on sunny days!
So dainty and so pure,
  How beautiful they are;
And yet the slightest touch
  Their purity may mar.
They must be gazed upon,
  Not handled or caressed;
And thus we hold afar
  The things we love the best.

Form: Lyric Comments

Comments About This Poem

Share your interpretation, favorite passage, or thoughts about this famous poem. Please provide an in-depth and meaningful comment.

  • What do you think the poet was trying to say?
  • Which line had the biggest impact on you?
  • How does this poem relate to modern life?
  • What literary devices did you notice?
No comments have been posted yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace