Alexander Smith:
(1829/30–1867).
Scottish poet and essayist, associated with the Spasmodic School of poets known for their intense imagery and metrical variation. He published poetry collections like “City Poems,” a Northumbrian epic poem “Edwin of Deira,” and prose works such as “Dreamthorp” and “A Summer in Skye.” He died young at 37 and was also known for editing editions of Burns’ works.
In the entire circle of the year, there are no days so delightful as those of a fine October.
In the entire circle of the year, there are no days so delightful as those of a fine October.
Sweet April’s tears, Dead on the hem of May.
“April tears” refers to: spring rain; melancholy; temporary sadness. “the edge of May” refers to: the transition to full spring; bloom, warmth, and renewal. “dead on the edge of May” means: gone as soon as May arrives; overcome by the new spring. Core meaning: Sadness is short-lived; April gloom gives way to May and bloom; What still mourns in April is over by May. 📚 Origin: Important nuance: The quote appears in ‘collections of sayings by Alexander Smith’. The ‘precise primary source’ — that is, from which ‘poem, essay, or book’ it exactly comes — is ‘not easy to ascertain’. Therefore, a cautious source citation is best. ✍️ Author: Usually attributed to Alexander Smith (1830–1867), a Scottish poet.
