To Cloe. Imitated From Martial

By Thomas Moore

Lyric Poem
    I could resign that eye of blue.         How e'er its splendor used to thrill me;     And even that cheek of roseate hue,--         To lose it, Cloe, scarce would kill me.     That snowy neck I ne'er should miss,         However much I've raved about it;     And sweetly as that lip can kiss,         I think I could exist without it.     In short, so well I've learned to fast,         That, sooth my love, I know not whether     I might not bring myself at last,         To--do without you altogether.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
The poem is a playful and ironic exploration of romantic love, with a tone that's both teasing and slightly melancholic. It's composed in a traditional rhymed four-line stanza structure, which provides a rhythmic consistency that enhances the light-hearted, almost whimsical, tone. The speaker first lists a series of physical attributes that were once the object of their affection—blue eyes, rosy cheeks, a snowy neck, and kissable lips. Upon closer analysis, these attributes are not just physical descriptions, but metaphors for the allure and enchantment often associated with romantic love.

However, the speaker's light tone carries an undercurrent of sadness, particularly in the repeated assertion that they could "resign" or "miss" these attributes. This suggests a sense of loss or separation, perhaps implying the ending of a romantic relationship. The poem concludes with a wry twist, as the speaker contemplates they might be able to "do without" their love altogether. This unexpected declaration serves as a subtle critique of romantic idealizations, suggesting love's transience and the human ability to move on.

Although the poem is straightforward in its structure and language, it employs irony as a key literary device. The speaker's claims that they could live without these attributes, and even the beloved herself, are likely intended to be taken with a grain of salt. Instead, they serve to underline the depth of the speaker's feelings, even as they profess to have moved beyond them. The poem, therefore, presents an insightful exploration of the complexities of love, wrapped in a veneer of jest.

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.