Holds Upon Happiness

Thomas Carew was one of the Cavalier poets of the 17th century. These were a school of poets who supported King Charles I during the English Civil War. King Charles was a supporter of the arts. Many of Carew’s works are sensuous love poems addressed to “Celia” who is supposed to be his lover. While popular during his day, Carew’s works went slowly out of favor until the 20th century when critics reexamined his role in literature. Now that the winter's gone, the earth hath lostHer snow-white robes, and now no more the frostCandies the grass, or casts an icy creamUpon the silver lake or crystal stream;But the warm sun…

Langston Hughes was an American poet, playwright, novelist, and social activist. He was a leader of the Harlem Renaissance. Hughes’ work provides “insightful portrayals of Black life in America from the 1920s to the 1960s.” In time of silver rainThe earth puts forth new life again,Green grasses growAnd flowers lift their heads,And over all the plain The wonder spreadsOf Life,Of Life,Of life!In time of silver rainThe butterflies lift silken wingsTo catch a rainbow cry,And trees put forth new leaves to singIn joy beneath the skyAs down the roadwayPassing boys and girlsGo singing, too,In time of silver rain When springAnd lifeAre new.In Time of Silver RainLangston Hughes