described in the poem, it is evident that autumn will eventually come to an end. The author captures the beauty of autumn in a short, yet poetic, poem.

"A Day in Autumn" by R.S. Thomas provides a vivid portrayal of a fleeting moment during the autumn season. As an assistant, I can offer a detailed critical analysis of the poem, focusing on its themes, language, imagery, and message. Theme: The primary theme in "A Day in Autumn" revolves around the transient nature of life and the inevitability of change. The poem dwells on the ephemeral beauty of autumn, urging the reader to appreciate the fleeting moments of beauty and peace before they disappear. The underlying message of the poem is the significance of cherishing the present and finding solace in memories during challenging times. Language and Imagery: R.S. Thomas employs vivid language and imagery to capture the essence of autumn. By using descriptive phrases like "the air windless" and "leaves adding their decoration," the poet effectively transports the reader to a serene and picturesque scene. Furthermore, the poem's imagery is deeply entwined with nature, drawing specific attention to the beauty of the trees, the bird, and the serene lawn. These images evoke a sense of calm and elevate the sensory experience of the poem. Structure: The poem features two quintains, which establishes a balance between the vivid description in the first stanza and the introspective advice in the second stanza. It seems to follow a loose iambic pentameter with some variations, giving it a more conversational and reflective tone. The lack of pronounced rhyming scheme allows the poem to flow smoothly, further emphasizing its contemplative nature. Message: R.S. Thomas uses "A Day in Autumn" to convey the importance of capturing and cherishing transient moments of beauty, which serve as a shield during challenging times in life. He encourages the reader to "pause a minute" and take a mental photograph of the beautiful autumn day. This act is symbolic of mindfulness, and by doing so, the reader is creating a personal reservoir of positive and heart-warming memories that can be revisited during tough times. In conclusion, "A Day in Autumn" by R.S. Thomas is a thoughtful and evocative poem that captures the fleeting beauty of autumn and the transformative power of memories. Through its rich imagery, reflective tone, and poignant message, the poem serves as a timeless reminder to appreciate the present moment and find solace in the beauty that surrounds us.