Variety.

By Thomas Moore

Lyric Poem
    Ask what prevailing, pleasing power         Allures the sportive, wandering bee     To roam untired, from flower to flower,         He'll tell you, 'tis variety.     Look Nature round; her features trace,         Her seasons, all her changes see;     And own, upon Creation's face,         The greatest charm's variety.     For me, ye gracious powers above!         Still let me roam, unfixt and free;     In all things,--but the nymph I love         I'll change, and taste variety.     But, Patty, not a world of charms         Could e'er estrange my heart from thee;--     No, let me ever seek those arms.         There still I'll find variety.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem, through its contemplation of nature and human desire, explores the theme of variety as an essential aspect of life. The poet uses the metaphor of a bee moving from flower to flower to illustrate this concept, and this metaphor extends to encompass the entirety of nature and human experience. The tone of the poem is reflective and gentle, infused with a sense of reverence for nature and affection for the speaker’s beloved, Patty.

Structurally, the poem is made up of four quatrains, each with a rhyme scheme of ABAB. This structure creates a sense of continuity and rhythm, which complements the theme of variety; as the poem progresses, the idea of variety is explored in different contexts, but the underlying rhythm remains consistent. The use of apostrophe in addressing the "gracious powers above" and the beloved "Patty" adds a personal and emotive layer to the poem, making the abstract theme of variety tangible and relatable. The poet's clever juxtaposition of the desire for variety in all things except in the case of his beloved, underscores the intensity of his love and the unique charm he finds in Patty— a charm that holds an unending variety for him. This serves as a standout literary device in the poem, lending depth to the theme and asserting the idea that true love, in its complexity and depth, offers a richness of variety that is unparalleled.

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.