Because Your Voice Was at My Side

Author: James Joyce


Because your voice was at my side
I gave him pain,
Because within my hand I held
Your hand again.

There is no word nor any sign
Can make amend --
He is a stranger to me now
Who was my friend.

Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written: 1907-01-01

Date Published: 1907-05-01

Language: English

Keywords: Voice, Love, Pain, Friendship, Betrayal

Source: Chamber Music

Publisher: Elkin Mathews

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: This poem explores the themes of love, pain, and betrayal, capturing a moment of deep personal conflict.

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.