Weep Not For Those. (Air.--Avison.)

By Thomas Moore

Elegy
    Weep not for those whom the veil of the tomb,         In life's happy morning, hath hid from our eyes,     Ere sin threw a blight o'er the spirit's young bloom,         Or earth had profaned what was born for the skies.     Death chilled the fair fountain, ere sorrow had stained it;         'Twas frozen in all the pure light of its course,     And but sleeps till the sunshine of Heaven has unchained it,         To water that Eden where first was its source.     Weep not for those whom the veil of the tomb,         In life's happy morning, hath hid from our eyes,     Ere sin threw a blight o'er the spirit's young bloom,         Or earth had profaned what was born for the skies.     Mourn not for her, the young Bride of the Vale,[1]         Our gayest and loveliest, lost to us now,     Ere life's early lustre had time to grow pale,         And the garland of Love was yet fresh on her brow.     Oh, then was her moment, dear spirit, for flying         From this gloomy world, while its gloom was unknown--     And the wild hymns she warbled so sweetly, in dying,         Were echoed in Heaven by lips like her own.     Weep not for her--in her springtime she flew         To that land where the wings of the soul are unfurled;     And now, like a star beyond evening's cold dew,         Looks radiantly down on the tears of this world.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poignant poem is an exploration of death, with a particular focus on the passing of those in the prime of their life. Despite its somber subject, the poem offers an optimistic perspective, suggesting that an early death may be a blessing, as it allows the spirit to depart before it is tainted by sin or the harsh realities of life on earth. The repeated refrain, "Weep not for those whom the veil of the tomb," emphasizes this comforting message, urging readers to view death not as an end but as a transformation.

The poem's tone is one of gentle consolation, and its structure of alternating rhyme scheme adds a rhythmic quality that feels like a soothing lullaby. Rich in metaphor and imagery, the poem presents death as a journey from earthly existence to a heavenly afterlife where the spirit is unchained and free. The image of the young bride, vibrant and beautiful, dying before her life loses its lustre, further underscores this theme. This notion of passing from life into a celestial realm is encapsulated in the final lines, where the deceased is seen as a star shining brightly and untouched by the "evening's cold dew," a symbol of earthly sorrows. The poet's effective use of these literary devices helps create a sense of peace and acceptance around the inevitability of death, making this work a powerful meditation on mortality and the transcendent power of the spirit.

Understanding Elegy

An elegy is a form of poetry that expresses sorrow or lamentation, often for someone who has died. This type of poetry serves as a tribute to the deceased, reflecting on their life and the grief left behind.

Elegies are deeply emotional and personal, exploring themes of loss, mourning, and remembrance. Here are some defining characteristics:

  • Mournful Tone: Elegies are characterized by a tone of sadness and reflection, as the poet grapples with the pain of loss.
  • Tribute to the Deceased: The subject of an elegy is often someone who has passed away, with the poem serving as a memorial that honors their life and legacy.
  • Personal Reflection: Elegies often include personal reflections on the impact of the deceased on the poet's life, as well as broader musings on mortality and the human condition.
  • Structure and Form: While elegies can vary in form, they often follow a traditional structure that includes an expression of grief, praise for the deceased, and a sense of consolation or acceptance.

From ancient times to the present, elegies have provided a way for poets to navigate the complexities of grief and loss, offering solace and a means of preserving the memory of those who have passed.