Thoughts, Moods and Ideals: Crimes of Leisure

by W. D. (William Douw) Lighthall

"Thoughts, Moods and Ideals: Crimes of Leisure" by W.D. Lighthall is a collection of poetry written in the late 19th century, specifically during the period around the 1880s. The book captures a wide range of themes, including love, identity, national pride, and the pursuit of beauty, reflecting the author's engagement with both personal and societal ideals as they relate to the Canadian experience. The collection comprises various poems that express deep emotional sentiments and contemplative reflections on life, nature, and the human condition. Lighthall explores the connection between the individual and the nation in verses like "National Hymn," where he invokes a sense of shared identity and aspirations for progress. Through vivid imagery and diverse subjects, including love and personal growth as seen in "The Artist's Prayer," he presents the ongoing struggle for self-understanding and fulfillment. The poet's use of nature as a powerful backdrop enhances the thematic depth, as he highlights both the beauty and the challenges of existence. Overall, this compilation serves as an introspective journey that resonates with both personal introspection and broader cultural narratives, making it a thoughtful read for those interested in Canadian literature and poetry of that era.