Have You Seen But A Bright Lily Grow

By Ben Jonson

Lyric Poem
Have you seen but a bright lily grow Before rude hands have touched it? Have you marked but the fall of snow Before the soil hath smutched it? Have you felt the wool of beaver, Or swans down ever? Or have smelt o the bud o the brier, Or the nard in the fire? Or have tasted the bag of the bee? O so white, O so soft, O so sweet is she!

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem showcases a beautiful juxtaposition of purity and corruption, nature and human interaction. The poet uses vivid imagery and rhetorical questions to explore these contrasts. The description of a bright lily, untouched by 'rude hands', the fall of snow before it is 'smutched' by the soil, and the sensory details of the beaver's wool and swan's down, all conjure a sense of untouched nature, purity and innocence.

The poem's tone is one of awe and admiration, as the poet marvels at the untouched beauty of nature and draws a parallel to a woman who is 'white', 'soft', and 'sweet'. This could be seen as a romantic or idealized portrayal. The structure of the poem, mostly framed by questions, propels the reader through the poem, creating a sense of urgency and anticipation. The repetition of the 'O' in the final line serves to emphasize the emotional intensity of the poet's feelings. Overall, the poem uses sensory imagery, contrasting themes, and a rhythmic structure to create an evocative exploration of beauty and purity.

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.