When Through The Piazzetta. (Venetian Air.)

By Thomas Moore

Lyric Poem
    When thro' the Piazzetta         Night breathes her cool air,     Then, dearest Ninetta,         I'll come to thee there.     Beneath thy mask shrouded,         I'll know thee afar,     As Love knows tho' clouded         His own Evening Star.     In garb, then, resembling         Some gay gondolier,     I'll whisper thee, trembling,         "Our bark, love, is near:     "Now, now, while there hover         "Those clouds o'er the moon,     "'Twill waft thee safe over         "Yon silent Lagoon."

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
The poem in question explores themes of love, secrecy, and anticipation, all set amidst the backdrop of an enthralling Venetian night. The poet uses a conversational tone, creating an intimate atmosphere as if the reader is privy to a private, whispered dialogue between two lovers. It's a beautifully clandestine scene, evoking a sense of romantic mystery and excitement.

The structure of the poem is consistent, with each stanza composed of alternating quatrains. This consistent rhythm lends a musical quality to the piece, reminiscent of a traditional love ballad. The poet’s use of imagery and metaphor is particularly striking. For instance, the speaker compares recognizing his masked love to Love's ability to recognize "His own Evening Star" despite the clouds—a compelling metaphor that illustrates their deep, intimate connection. The gondolier disguise, the silent lagoon, and the masked rendezvous all work together to create a vivid, suspenseful sense of atmosphere and place. The poet uses these elements not only to paint a picture of a specific locale but also to reflect the underlying emotions of the speaker: desire, anticipation, and a touch of fear.

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.