Come, My Celia

Author: Ben Jonson

Come, my Celia, let us prove
While we may, the sports of love;
Time will not be ours forever;
He at length our good will sever.
Spend not then his gifts in vain.
Suns that set may rise again;
But if once we lose this light,
Tis with us perpetual night.
Why should we defer our joys?
Fame and rumor are but toys.
Cannot we delude the eyes
Of a few poor household spies,
Or his easier ears beguile,
So removed by our wile?
Tis no sin loves fruit to steal;
But the sweet theft to reveal.
To be taken, to be seen,
These have crimes accounted been.
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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 carpe diem love lyric, urging the beloved, Celia, to seize the moment and indulge in the pleasures of love before time takes its toll. The speaker emphasizes the fleeting nature of time and life, suggesting that they should not waste the opportunity to enjoy their love. The theme of carpe diem ("seize the day") is clear in lines like "Suns that set may rise again; But if once we lose this light, Tis with us perpetual night," underscoring the idea that once their time is gone, it will not return.

The speaker also downplays societal judgments, dismissing "Fame and rumor" as trivial concerns and encouraging Celia to engage in love despite the risk of being caught. The poem is playful yet sensual, with the speaker portraying love as something natural and not sinful, but warning that being discovered is what turns it into a perceived crime.

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.