Were Not The Sinful Mary's Tears. (Air.--Stevenson.)

Author: Thomas Moore

    Were not the sinful Mary's tears
        An offering worthy Heaven,
    When, o'er the faults of former years,
        She wept--and was forgiven?

    When, bringing every balmy sweet
        Her day of luxury stored,
    She o'er her Saviour's hallowed feet
        The precious odors poured;--
    And wiped them with that golden hair,
        Where once the diamond shone;
    Tho' now those gems of grief were there
        Which shine for GOD alone!

    Were not those sweets, so humbly shed--
        That hair--those weeping eyes--
    And the sunk heart, that inly bled--
        Heaven's noblest sacrifice?

    Thou that hast slept in error's sleep,
        Oh, would'st thou wake in Heaven,
    Like Mary kneel, like Mary weep,
        "Love much" and be forgiven![1]
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Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

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Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: This poem beautifully explores themes of repentance, redemption, and the transformative power of love. The poet uses the biblical figure of Mary Magdalene as a symbol of sinful humanity seeking forgiveness and achieving it through sincere remorse and humble service. The tone is both somber and hopeful, hinting at the profound spiritual transformation that can occur when one acknowledges their faults and seeks to correct them.

The poem's structure is traditional, employing a regular rhyme scheme. It uses vivid, sensory language, particularly in the description of Mary's act of washing Jesus' feet with her tears and expensive perfume. This lends a tangible, almost tactile quality to the poem, thereby making the emotional and spiritual aspects of the poem more relatable to readers. The poet also uses various literary devices such as simile and metaphor ("gems of grief," "Heaven’s noblest sacrifice") to enhance the emotional intensity of the poem. The concluding lines deliver a powerful message to the reader: that love, repentance, and humility can lead to divine forgiveness. The poem, therefore, serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of love and the possibility of redemption.

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.