Verse-Making Was Least Of My Virtues

Author: Robert Browning

    Verse-making was least of my virtues: I viewed with despair
    Wealth that never yet was but might be, all that verse-making were
    If the life would but lengthen to wish, let the mind be laid bare.
    So I said, "To do little is bad, to do nothing is worse",
    And made verse.

    Love-making, how simple a matter! No depths to explore,
    No heights in a life to ascend! No disheartening Before,
    No affrighting Hereafter, love now will be love ever more.
    So I felt "To keep silence were folly:" all language above,
    I made love.
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Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

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Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: The poem scrutinizes the dichotomy between verse-making (poetry) and love-making, reflecting the speaker's internal struggle and self-deprecation. The tone is contemplative and almost self-deprecating, illustrating the speaker's self-awareness and introspection. The speaker initially dismisses their own poetic skills, portraying verse-making as an elusive aspiration rather than an attained skill. Despite this self-doubt, the speaker ultimately concludes that action, even if imperfect, is better than inaction.

The second stanza juxtaposes the complexity of verse-making with the simplicity of love-making. The speaker positions love as an unchanging constant, void of the intimidating 'before' and 'after.' This stark contrast between the perceived simplicity of love and complexity of poetry creates a sense of irony, considering the traditional association of poetry with expressions of love. The structure of the poem, composed of two stanzas, mirrors this dichotomy, each stanza dedicated to the exploration of verse-making and love-making respectively.

The poem employs a conversational tone, enhancing its accessibility while maintaining its depth. The repetition of "I made" in the final lines of both stanzas lends a rhythmic continuity to the poem, creating a sense of resolution despite the speaker's internal conflict. Notably, the poem uses the metaphor of verse-making and love-making as ways of expressing the human need to create, whether it be art or relationships. The speaker's decision to engage in both, despite their insecurities, illustrates the human drive to leave a mark, to express oneself, and to connect with others.

Exploring Lyric Poetry

Lyric poetry is a powerful and intimate form of expression, characterized by its focus on the personal emotions and thoughts of the poet. Often musical in nature, lyric poems resonate with readers through their vivid language and rhythmic flow, capturing moments of intense feeling.

Here are some key characteristics that define lyric poetry:

  • Expressive Language: Lyric poems use rich and evocative language to convey deep emotions, often painting a vivid picture of the poet's inner world.
  • Personal Perspective: Typically written in the first person, these poems offer a window into the poet's personal experiences, thoughts, and reflections.
  • Musicality: Lyric poems often feature a rhythmic structure, with meter and rhyme that give them a song-like quality, enhancing the emotional impact.

From ancient odes to contemporary free verse, lyric poetry remains a beloved and enduring form, celebrated for its ability to articulate the nuances of human emotion in a way that resonates deeply with readers.