Rise to the dizzy heights
dream the dreams
and think the thoughts
that you and only you
alone can think.
There will be times
when you'll be startled
by the daring of your mind
but don't ever be afraid,
you were born to fly
and to feel the scorching heat
that burns you up inside.
Rise up and touch the sun,
conquer the light blue skies
and I'll be looking up
and telling all the world
once I knew that star.
A few words about the poem…
Icarus | The Aspirations of the Young | Greek Mythology Poems
"Icarus" delves into the human spirit's aspirations by employing the classical myth to explore themes of ambition, courage, and the inevitable risks of reaching for greatness. Through concise and vivid language, it conveys a message of daring to dream and embracing the potential dangers that come with such bold endeavours.
The opening lines, "Rise to the dizzy heights / dream the dreams / and think the thoughts / that you and only you / alone can think," invite the reader into a realm of individual potential and unique vision. The use of the imperative "Rise" sets a tone of encouragement, though it is tempered by the personal and reflective nature of the subsequent lines, emphasizing the solitary journey of personal aspiration.
In the second stanza, the poem acknowledges the inherent fear that accompanies great ambition: "There will be times / when you'll be startled / by the daring of your mind." This acknowledgment of fear and surprise highlights the inner conflict between aspiration and hesitation, a universal experience for those who strive for more.
The encouragement continues with "but don't ever be afraid, / you were born to fly / and to feel the scorching heat / that burns you up inside." Here, the metaphor of flight and the reference to "scorching heat" invoke the myth of Icarus directly, suggesting that the pursuit of dreams, though perilous, is a fundamental part of one's nature. The heat that "burns you up inside" symbolizes both the passion that drives one forward and the potential for self-destruction inherent in such pursuits.
The climax of the poem, "Rise up and touch the sun, / conquer the light blue skies," echoes the climax of Icarus's flight, urging the reader to reach for their highest potential despite the risks. The imagery of touching the sun and conquering the skies encapsulates the ultimate achievement of one's dreams, though the myth of Icarus serves as a cautionary backdrop.
The poem concludes on a reflective and personal note: "and I'll be looking up / and telling all the world / once I knew that star." This final sentiment shifts the perspective to the observer, who admires the dreamer and their daring pursuit. The use of "that star" as a metaphor for the dreamer adds a layer of admiration and remembrance, suggesting that the impact of one's aspirations extends beyond their own experience to inspire others.
In "Icarus," part of the series “Greek Mythology Poems,” the poet combines classical myth with contemporary themes of individuality and ambition. The imagery and structure guide the reader through a journey of daring and introspection, ultimately celebrating the human spirit's relentless pursuit of greatness.
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