Author: Thomas Moore
Where shall we bury our shame? Where, in what desolate place, Hide the last wreck of a name Broken and stained by disgrace? Death may dissever the chain, Oppression will cease when we're gone; But the dishonor, the stain, Die as we may, will live on. Was it for this we sent out Liberty's cry from our shore? Was it for this that her shout Thrilled to the world's very core? Thus to live cowards and slaves!-- Oh, ye free hearts that lie dead, Do you not, even in your graves, Shudder, as o'er you we tread?
Type of Poem: Lyric Poem
Date Written:
Date Published:
Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Publisher:
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Comments/Notes: This piece of poetry is a poignant examination of shame, disgrace, and the enduring nature of dishonor. The poet uses intense, evocative language to convey a sense of profound regret and internal conflict. The questions posed throughout the poem point to introspection and self-doubt, creating a tone of melancholic introspection.
The poem grapples with themes of freedom, courage, and the legacy of actions, particularly those that result in shame or dishonor. The line "But the dishonor, the stain, Die as we may, will live on" encapsulates the poem's exploration of how actions can outlast life itself. The poet contrasts the ideals of liberty and bravery with images of cowardice and servitude, creating a palpable tension that mirrors the internal struggle of the implied speaker.
The poem's structure, with its use of alternating indentations, contributes to the rhythm of the piece, creating a sense of ebb and flow that mirrors the shifting emotions of the speaker. Notably, the poem employs rhetorical questions and exclamation points, enhancing the dramatic and emotional impact. This combination of structure and literary devices results in a powerful, thought-provoking piece. It challenges readers to consider their actions, the ideals they uphold, and the enduring legacy they will leave behind.
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:
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.