To W. R. (Madam Lifes A Piece In Bloom)

By William Ernest Henley

Ballad
    Madam Life's a piece in bloom     Death goes dogging everywhere:     She's the tenant of the room,     He's the ruffian on the stair.     You shall see her as a friend,     You shall bilk him once and twice;     But he'll trap you in the end,     And he'll stick you for her price.     With his kneebones at your chest,     And his knuckles in your throat,     You would reason - plead - protest!     Clutching at her petticoat;     But she's heard it all before,     Well she knows you've had your fun,     Gingerly she gains the door,     And your little job is done.     1877

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This intriguing poem juxtaposes the concepts of life and death in a vivid, almost theatrical manner. The central theme revolves around the inescapable and relentless pursuit of death, personified as a menacing 'ruffian', and life, personified as a lady named 'Madam Life'. The tone is somber and contemplative, imbuing the poem with an air of inevitable melancholy.

The poem uses a straightforward structure with a consistent rhyme scheme, which serves to underscore the relentless, steady tread of life and death. The poet adeptly uses personification, transforming abstract concepts into tangible characters with whom the reader can engage. Death's aggressive physicality, illustrated through 'kneebones at your chest' and 'knuckles in your throat', is chillingly effective, emphasizing its inescapable nature. Likewise, the portrayal of life as a somewhat indifferent figure, one who 'knows you've had your fun', accentuates the fleeting, transient nature of our mortal existence.

The poem's conclusion underscores the ultimate triumph of death over life, a grim but universal truth. The portrayal of life slipping away 'gingerly', as if trying not to disturb the scene, leaves a lasting impression. Overall, this poem masterfully employs personification and vivid imagery to explore the themes of life, death, and the transient nature of human existence.

Understanding Ballads

A ballad is a form of verse, often a narrative set to music, that has been a cornerstone of storytelling across various cultures. Traditionally passed down orally, ballads are known for their rhythmic structure and often tell tales of love, adventure, and heroism.

Ballads are characterized by their strong rhythm and repetition, making them both memorable and engaging. Here are some defining features:

  • Narrative Structure: Ballads typically tell a story, often a dramatic or emotional tale that unfolds in a straightforward, chronological order.
  • Quatrain Stanzas: Most ballads are composed of quatrains (four-line stanzas) with a rhyme scheme of ABAB or ABCB, which adds to the musicality of the verse.
  • Repetition: Refrains or repeated lines are common in ballads, helping to emphasize key themes or emotions and making the ballad easier to remember.
  • Oral Tradition: Many ballads originated from oral traditions, which means they were passed down through generations by word of mouth before being written down.

From medieval minstrels to contemporary songwriters, ballads have continued to evolve, remaining a beloved form of expression that captures the human experience in a way that is both poetic and accessible.