Author: Thomas Moore

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    To weave a garland for the rose.
        And think thus crown'd 'twould lovelier be,
    Were far less vain than to suppose
        That silks and gems add grace to thee.
    Where is the pearl whose orient lustre
        Would not, beside thee, look less bright?
    What gold could match the glossy cluster
        Of those young ringlets full of light?

    Bring from the land, where fresh it gleams,
        The bright blue gem of India's mine,
    And see how soon, though bright its beams,
        'Twill pale before one glance of thine:
    Those lips, too, when their sounds have blest us
        With some divine, mellifluous air,
    Who would not say that Beauty's cestus
        Had let loose all its witcheries there?

    Here, to this conquering host of charms
        I now give up my spell-bound heart.
    Nor blush to yield even Reason's arms,
        When thou her bright-eyed conqueror art.
    Thus to the wind all fears are given;
        Henceforth those eyes alone I see.
    Where Hope, as in her own blue heaven,
        Sits beckoning me to bliss and thee!

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Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

Publisher:

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: This poem is a rich exploration of love and adoration, extolling the natural beauty of the beloved over any adornment or material wealth. The poem's speaker clearly places the beloved on a pedestal, comparing her beauty to a rose, pearls, and gold, and even the "bright blue gem of India's mine." These comparisons serve to elevate the beloved’s beauty, suggesting it outshines even the most precious of materials.

The tone of the poem is one of passionate admiration and devotion, as the speaker expresses a complete surrender to the beloved’s charm, so powerful that it conquers reason itself. The structure of the poem, with its consistent rhythmic pattern and rhyming couplets, creates a harmonious and enchanting melody, which mirrors the enchantment the speaker feels for the beloved. The repeated use of the second person “thee” also enhances the intimate and personal nature of the poem. The final line, with its mention of hope, bliss, and the beloved, encapsulates the themes of the poem, leaving the reader with an image of hopeful, passionate love. The use of vivid and sensual imagery throughout the poem, combined with the romantic tone and the elevated language, results in a powerful portrayal of a lover’s devotion and admiration.