A Celebration Of Charis: I. His Excuse For Loving

Author: Ben Jonson

Let it not your wonder move,
Less your laughter, that I love.
Though I now write fifty years,
I have had, and have, my peers;
Poets, though divine, are men,
Some have lov'd as old again.
And it is not always face,
Clothes, or fortune, gives the grace;
Or the feature, or the youth.
But the language and the truth,
With the ardour and the passion,
Gives the lover weight and fashion.
If you then will read the story,
First prepare you to be sorry
That you never knew till now
Either whom to love or how;
But be glad, as soon with me,
When you know that this is she
Of whose beauty it was sung;
She shall make the old man young,
Keep the middle age at stay,
And let nothing high decay,
Till she be the reason why
All the world for love may die.
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Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

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Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: This poem is a profound exploration of love, age, and beauty, and it employs a deft combination of wit, wisdom, and earnestness to convey its message. The speaker, acknowledging his age ("Though I now write fifty years"), insists on his right to love, and even more, his capacity for it, despite societal expectations or norms. The poet challenges the readers' preconceived notions about love and age, asserting that love is not confined to youth, and that the true essence of love is not based on physical attributes or material possessions ("And it is not always face, Clothes, or fortune, gives the grace; Or the feature, or the youth.") but on the truth, language, ardour, and passion.

In the second half of the poem, the speaker presents a particular object of his affection, inviting the reader to be part of this intimate revelation. The woman described is not just a personal love interest, but a universal symbol of enduring beauty that can rejuvenate the

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.