The Metamorphosed Gypsies (Excerpt)

By Ben Jonson

Lyric Poem
The fairy beam upon you, The stars to glister on you; A moon of light In the noon of night, Till the fire-drake hath o'er gone you. The wheel of fortune guide you The boy with the bow beside you; Run aye in the way Till the bird of day, And the luckier lot betide you. To the old, long life and treasure, To the young, all health and pleasure; To the fair, their face With eternal grace, And the foul to be lov'd at leisure. To the witty, all clear mirrors, To the foolish, their dark errors; To the loving sprite, A secure delight; To the jealous, his own false terrors.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem is an enchanting mix of traditional folklore and moral reflections that explores various themes, such as fortune, age, beauty, wit, folly, love, and jealousy. The poet uses a multitude of natural and fantastical imagery to convey his wishes and observations, creating a tone that is both whimsical and contemplative.

The structure of the poem, with its rhymed couplets and rhythmic cadence, lends a sense of musicality and charm. The poet employs standout literary devices, such as personification and symbolism, to enhance the depth of his message. The "fairy beam," "stars," "moon of light," and "fire-drake" symbolize different forms of guidance and protection, while the "wheel of fortune" and "boy with the bow" represent luck and love, respectively. The contrasting images of "clear mirrors" and "dark errors" effectively underscore the difference between wisdom and folly.

The poem ends with a clever twist, wishing the jealous their own false terrors, suggesting that our perceptions and attitudes significantly influence our experiences. Overall, the poem is a captivating blend of folkloric charm and philosophical insights, demonstrating the poet's skillful use of imagery, rhythm, and thematic exploration.

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.