Storm Ending by Jean Toomer

The poem, “Storm Ending” by Jean Toomer is based on the culmination of a storm as the title states. He provides a vivid description of this surreal experience that both excites and interests the reader. He expertly compares and describes the storm as a flower throughout the poem which greatly contrasts the idea of how many view a storm or it's aftermath. He expresses the formation of thunder as a gorgeous blossom. These words are normally words used to describe the  perfection of  flowers. It can be argued that his choice of words to describe his view, is a bit Ironic. One can speculate that he is referring to clouds when he says “full-lipped flowers, bitten by the sun.” This can mean that the sun and the clouds are just appearing after the storm has ended and the sun is  shining through the clouds. His description helps the reader to clearly imagine the scenery. Toomer sees the beauty in what individual would refer to as terrifying. He first describes the rain as , “Bleeding rain” which  immediately conjures up a negative image of death and destruction but then immediately after he compares the rain to “golden honey” which brings in view, Spring time when bees hum around flowers to find nectar to make honey.

The negative idea of a storm contradicts the positive description that Toomer gives. Yet there is great beauty and meaning to this poem. It may be his way of referring to life experiences that are sometimes disastrous yet at the end of it all creates or serves a beautiful purpose. It can mean that there is exquisiteness even in the things that seem terrible and frightening but one would only have to see and understand it, to know that it exists. This poem describes art in nature and how powerful it is.