His Farewell to Sack

Author: Robert Herrick

Farewell, thou thing, time past so known, so dear
To me as blood to life and spirit; near,
Nay, thou more near than kindred, friend, man's own
Dearer than wife, thou, the enjoy'd alone;
To whom the vows and secrets of my soul,
With each event of life, I did enroll,
As to the Genius of my house. Many
A sorry, sorry tune, telling the affinity
Betwixt my self and thee; then this I found,
Be thou my best, yet thus much I'll expound.
Be as thou wast wont to be: live to be
The savior of my life, still let me see
Thy powerful virtue; keep the verse that I
In holy rage writ all so carefully
To thee; and, true to one another, then
We'll work, as by a planetary power,
The swiftest yet surest turn in all the sphere
Of fortune's wheel, and never any fear
Can do the least shadow of the base world;
If thou art in my head or in my hand,
I'll fear no foe, nor any shock stand.
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Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written: 1648-01-01

Date Published: 1648-05-01

Language: English

Keywords: Farewell, Wine, Devotion, Separation, Nostalgia

Source: Hesperides

Publisher: The Belknap Press of Harvard University Press

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: A poem in which Herrick bids farewell to sack (a type of wine), reflecting on the deep connection he once had with it and the memories associated with its enjoyment.

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.