'Sixteen Poems' Summary

The sixteen poems in this collection, chosen by William Butler Yeats, represent a diverse range of Allingham's work. Some of the poems, such as 'The Fairies' and 'Up the airy mountain,' evoke the enchanting world of Irish folklore and mythology, capturing the magic and wonder of the natural world. Others, like 'The Winding Stair' and 'The Old Woman of the Roads,' explore themes of aging, mortality, and the passage of time, offering a poignant meditation on life's fleeting beauty. Allingham's poems often feature vivid descriptions of the Irish landscape, capturing the beauty of the countryside and the changing seasons. His love poetry, such as 'The Old Woman of the Roads' and 'Lovely Mary Donnelly,' explores the depths of human emotion, capturing the joys and sorrows of love and loss. With its rich imagery and lyrical style, this collection offers a glimpse into the heart and mind of a gifted poet who celebrated the beauty and wonder of the world around him.