When Abroad In The World

By Thomas Moore

Lyric Poem
    When abroad in the world thou appearest.         And the young and the lovely are there,     To my heart while of all thou'rt the dearest.         To my eyes thou'rt of all the most fair.             They pass, one by one,                 Like waves of the sea,             That say to the Sun,                 "See, how fair we can be."         But where's the light like thine,         In sun or shade to shine?     No--no, 'mong them all, there is nothing like thee,                 Nothing like thee.     Oft, of old, without farewell or warning,         Beauty's self used to steal from the skies;     Fling a mist round her head, some fine morning,         And post down to earth in disguise;             But, no matter what shroud                 Around her might be,             Men peeped through the cloud,                 And whispered, "'Tis She."         So thou, where thousands are,         Shinest forth the only star,--     Yes, yes, 'mong them all, there is nothing like thee,                 Nothing like thee.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem is a compelling ode to an individual's beauty and charm that outshines all others. The recurring theme of incomparable beauty is clear throughout, with the speaker expressing an intense admiration and affection for the subject. The tone is one of reverence and awe, marked by an overwhelming sense of admiration for the subject's beauty that stands unrivaled amidst all others.

The poem is structured in two stanzas, each ending with a refrain that emphatically reiterates the subject's unique appeal - 'Nothing like thee.' This refrain introduces a sense of rhythm and emphasis, underlining the speaker's conviction. The poet makes use of similes and metaphors to convey the subject's beauty, comparing them to the sea, the sun, and a star. The sea waves metaphor is particularly effective, conjuring an image of fleeting beauty that, despite being enchanting, cannot compare to the enduring allure of the subject.

There's also a hint of mythology in the second stanza, with the reference to Beauty personified descending from the skies, adding an otherworldly aspect to the subject's charm. The language used is richly descriptive and emotive, creating a vivid image of the subject's appeal. The poem ultimately is a passionate expression of admiration that celebrates the subject's beauty in a way that is both universal and deeply personal.

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.