On My First Daughter

By Ben Jonson

Elegy
Here lies to each her parents Ruth, Mary, the daughter of their youth: Yet, all heavens gifts, being heavens due, It makes the father, less, to rue. At six months end, she parted hence With safety of her innocence; Whose soul heavens queen, (whose name she bears) In comfort of her mothers tears, Hath placed amongst her virgin train: Where, while that severed doth remain, This grave partakes the fleshly birth. Which cover lightly, gentle earth.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poignant poem is a deeply moving elegy, lamenting the tragic loss of a young child named Mary. The poem navigates the themes of grief, innocence, and the spiritual realm with a somber, yet comforting tone. The child's name, Mary, and the reference to 'heavens queen' suggest a religious context, likely Christian, and the poet presents death as a transition to a divine sphere where the child joins the 'virgin train' under the protection of a heavenly queen.

The structure of the poem, a single quatrain, contributes to its solemnity. The poet uses a straightforward rhyme scheme, which adds to the comforting rhythm of the piece, while also highlighting the gravity of the subject matter. The poem's language is simple and direct, yet the use of parentheses adds a layer of complexity, offering additional information or reflection. The poet employs personification in addressing the earth directly in the final line, a tender plea to treat the child's physical remains with care. The poem concludes on a note of acceptance and resignation, yet the parents' grief is still palpable, suggesting the universal and enduring nature of such a loss. Overall, the poem is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the solace found in faith.

Understanding Elegy

An elegy is a form of poetry that expresses sorrow or lamentation, often for someone who has died. This type of poetry serves as a tribute to the deceased, reflecting on their life and the grief left behind.

Elegies are deeply emotional and personal, exploring themes of loss, mourning, and remembrance. Here are some defining characteristics:

  • Mournful Tone: Elegies are characterized by a tone of sadness and reflection, as the poet grapples with the pain of loss.
  • Tribute to the Deceased: The subject of an elegy is often someone who has passed away, with the poem serving as a memorial that honors their life and legacy.
  • Personal Reflection: Elegies often include personal reflections on the impact of the deceased on the poet's life, as well as broader musings on mortality and the human condition.
  • Structure and Form: While elegies can vary in form, they often follow a traditional structure that includes an expression of grief, praise for the deceased, and a sense of consolation or acceptance.

From ancient times to the present, elegies have provided a way for poets to navigate the complexities of grief and loss, offering solace and a means of preserving the memory of those who have passed.