When Thou Shalt Wander. (Sicilian Air.)

By Thomas Moore

Lyric Poem
    When thou shalt wander by that sweet light         We used to gaze on so many an eve,     When love was new and hope was bright,         Ere I could doubt or thou deceive--     Oh, then, remembering how swift went by     Those hours of transport, even thou may'st sigh.     Yes, proud one! even thy heart may own         That love like ours was far too sweet     To be, like summer garments thrown         Aside, when past the summer's heat;     And wish in vain to know again     Such days, such nights, as blest thee then.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This melancholic piece is a contemplative reflection on the transience of love and the bitter pain of betrayal. The poet utilizes the metaphor of light to symbolize the joy and hope of love in its nascent stage, and the memory of this serves as a poignant contrast to the subsequent deception. The use of second-person narrative intensifies the sense of personal betrayal, directly placing the blame on the addressee, and yet, it also introduces a sense of universal relatability.

The tone of the poem carries a profound sense of regret and longing. The parallel structure of the two stanzas enhances the sense of lost time and opportunities, highlighting the transformation of love from a blissful experience to a source of pain. This poem also employs the metaphor of summer and its associated heat to represent the fleeting nature of passion, casting a critical view on the transitory nature of human emotions.

The poet's use of language, while simplistic, is emotionally charged, creating a poignant sense of pathos. A key literary device employed is the use of dramatic irony; the poet implies that the 'proud one' who once deceived will eventually feel regret. The poem closes with a sense of unfulfilled longing, driving home the profound sense of loss and the irrevocable nature of time.

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.