1. Introduction to Silver:
- The poem begins with the speaker noting the ethereal quality of silver and how it seems to have a presence in many aspects of life, including the sparkle of stars, the sheen of ice, and the shimmer of dew on spider webs.
2. Silver as a Symbol:
- The poet uses silver metaphorically to represent purity, innocence, and the transience of life. It evokes a sense of enchantment and magic.
3. Emotional Impact:
- The speaker describes how the sight of silver can bring a sense of peace and tranquility, like a soothing balm to the soul. Silver seems to possess a healing and calming effect on individuals.
4. Connection with Nature:
- De la Mare highlights how silver is intricately woven into the natural world. He refers to the silver birch, the silver wings of birds, and the silver glow of the moon.
5. Silver in Childhood:
- The poem suggests that silver holds a particular charm for children. The speaker fondly recalls how, as a child, he marvelled at silver objects and delighted in their touch.
6. Reflective Quality:
- The speaker ponders the reflective nature of silver, comparing it to a mirror that holds memories and reflections of past moments.
7. Silver and Time:
- De la Mare alludes to the temporal aspect of silver, implying that it carries the weight of history and the essence of bygone eras.
8. Conclusion:
- The poem ends with the speaker expressing his profound admiration and appreciation for the beauty, mystery, and magic of the color silver and the emotions it evokes in him.
Overall, "Silver" is a reflective and evocative piece that celebrates the enchantment and evocative power of the color silver, intertwining it with themes of nature, purity, and the passage of time.