After The Battle

By Thomas Moore

Lyric Poem
    Night closed around the conqueror's way,         And lightnings showed the distant hill,     Where those who lost that dreadful day,         Stood few and faint, but fearless still.     The soldier's hope, the patriot's zeal,         For ever dimmed, for ever crost--     Oh! who shall say what heroes feel,         When all but life and honor's lost?     The last sad hour of freedom's dream,         And valor's task, moved slowly by,     While mute they watcht, till morning's beam         Should rise and give them light to die.     There's yet a world, where souls are free,         Where tyrants taint not nature's bliss;--     If death that world's bright opening be,         Oh! who would live a slave in this?

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem is a deeply moving exploration of themes such as heroism, loss, sacrifice, and freedom. It paints a powerful picture of a defeated group of soldiers and patriots, standing bravely in the face of overwhelming defeat. The tone is somber and reflective, yet there's an undercurrent of unyielding resilience that adds a poignant layer to the narrative.

The poem begins with a vivid depiction of a night scene, using the striking imagery of "lightnings" to illuminate the "distant hill" and the defeated soldiers. This not only sets up an atmospheric backdrop but also symbolizes the soldiers' dire situation. The poet also uses a variety of other poetic devices such as personification (e.g., "freedom's dream") and metaphors (e.g., "world's bright opening"), which add depth and texture to the narrative.

The poem's structure, consisting of two quatrains followed by a sestet, provides a rhythmic flow and allows for a build-up of tension and emotion. This culminates in the final lines where the speaker posits a rhetorical question, offering a glimpse of hope and liberation beyond the physical realm. The poem thus suggests that death might be preferable to a life of servitude, a powerful notion that leaves a lasting impression on readers. Despite its somber mood, the poem is ultimately a tribute to the indomitable spirit of those willing to fight for their freedom and honor, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.

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.