Some Starlit Garden Grey With Dew

By William Ernest Henley

    Some starlit garden grey with dew,     Some chamber flushed with wine and fire,     What matters where, so I and you     Are worthy our desire?     Behind, a past that scolds and jeers     For ungirt loins and lamps unlit;     In front, the unmanageable years,     The trap upon the Pit;     Think on the shame of dreams for deeds,     The scandal of unnatural strife,     The slur upon immortal needs,     The treason done to life:     Arise! no more a living lie,     And with me quicken and control     Some memory that shall magnify     The universal Soul.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Analysis & Notes:
This poem is a poignant exploration of regret, time, and self-realization. Its theme lies in the introspection and reflection of past choices, the burden of time, and the desire for authenticity and purpose. The emotional tone is a blend of nostalgic melancholy and a call to action, creating a stirring contrast that amplifies the poem's message.

The poem is structured in four quatrains, with a consistent rhyme scheme. This uniform structure mirrors the relentless passage of time that the poem explores. There's a noticeable shift in the second half, moving from painful reflection to a call for self-awareness and action. This change is a notable structural choice, creating a clear narrative progression from lamentation to motivation.

In terms of literary devices, the poet skillfully employs vivid imagery and metaphor to convey deep emotional states. The starlit garden grey with dew and the chamber flushed with wine and fire symbolize the duality of life—moments of tranquility and passion, respectively. The phrases "ungirt loins and lamps unlit" and "the shame of dreams for deeds" underscore the poet's regrets of inactions and unfulfilled desires. The poet also uses personification to bring to life abstract concepts such as the past and future, and effectively utilizes metaphors such as "the trap upon the Pit" to depict the fear of an uncertain future.

In conclusion, this poem is a poignant portrayal of introspection and a call to live authentically. Its vivid imagery and powerful metaphors make it a memorable piece that invites readers to reflect on their own lives.

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.