Written At Rome

By Ralph Waldo Emerson

Reflective Poem
    Alone in Rome. Why, Rome is lonely too;--     Besides, you need not be alone; the soul     Shall have society of its own rank.     Be great, be true, and all the Scipios,     The Catos, the wise patriots of Rome,     Shall flock to you and tarry by your side,     And comfort you with their high company.     Virtue alone is sweet society,     It keeps the key to all heroic hearts,     And opens you a welcome in them all.     You must be like them if you desire them,     Scorn trifles and embrace a better aim     Than wine or sleep or praise;     Hunt knowledge as the lover wooes a maid,     And ever in the strife of your own thoughts     Obey the nobler impulse; that is Rome:     That shall command a senate to your side;     For there is no might in the universe     That can contend with love. It reigns forever.     Wait then, sad friend, wait in majestic peace     The hour of heaven. Generously trust     Thy fortune's web to the beneficent hand     That until now has put his world in fee     To thee. He watches for thee still. His love     Broods over thee, and as God lives in heaven,     However long thou walkest solitary,     The hour of heaven shall come, the man appear.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem powerfully explores themes of solitude, inner strength, and spiritual faith. The speaker is situated in Rome, a historical cradle of civilization, yet feels alone. This serves as a metaphor for the individual's journey through life, often marked by feelings of isolation. The tone is both contemplative and encouraging, urging the reader to find companionship in personal virtues and the pursuit of knowledge rather than transient pleasures.

The poem's structure is linear, using elevated, almost sermon-like language to convey its message. The speaker uses a series of imperatives - "Be great, be true," "Scorn trifles," "Hunt knowledge," "Obey the nobler impulse" - to exhort the reader towards a path of virtue and wisdom. The repeated invocation of Rome's ancient heroes - the Scipios, the Catos - reinforces the theme of seeking high ideals.

Significant literary devices include personification and metaphor. The personification of virtue as a key holder to heroic hearts and the soul having "society of its own rank" adds depth to the theme of companionship in solitude. The metaphor of hunting knowledge like a lover wooing a maid injects a passionate and active vigor into the pursuit of wisdom.

The poem concludes with a note of hope and divine assurance. It suggests that even in the face of loneliness, one should remain patient and trust in the divine plan, echoing the sentiment that love, in its universal might, reigns supreme. This embodies the theme of spiritual faith and the belief in a higher power's benevolence. This poem, thus, offers a profound exploration of the human condition, the pursuit of virtue, and the triumph of love.

Understanding Reflective Poetry

Reflective poetry is a form of verse that explores the thoughts, emotions, and meditations of the poet. It often delves into personal experiences, memories, and philosophical musings, offering a window into the poet's inner world.

Reflective poems are characterized by their introspective nature, allowing readers to connect with the poet’s contemplations on life, existence, and the human condition. Here are some defining characteristics:

  • Personal Reflection: These poems often center on the poet's own thoughts and feelings, offering a deep dive into their emotional or intellectual state.
  • Philosophical Musings: Reflective poetry frequently addresses larger existential questions, providing a space for the poet to ponder life’s meaning, purpose, and the nature of reality.
  • Imagery and Symbolism: Poets use vivid imagery and rich symbolism to convey their reflections, often drawing on nature, art, or personal experiences to express complex ideas.
  • Quiet and Contemplative Tone: Reflective poems typically have a calm, meditative tone, inviting readers to pause and reflect alongside the poet.

Reflective poetry provides a unique avenue for exploring the poet’s inner world, inviting readers to engage in their own reflections as they journey through the verses.