Andres Request

By Nathaniel Parker Willis

Lyric Poem
    It is not the fear of death         That damps my brow;     It is not for another breath         I ask thee now;     I can die with a lip unstirr'd         And a quiet heart -     Let but this prayer be heard         Ere I depart.     I can give up my mother's look -         My sister's kiss;     I can think of love - yet brook         A death like this!     I can give up the young fame         I burn'd to win -     All - but the spotless name         I glory in!     Thine is the power to give,         Thine to deny,     Joy for the hour I live -         Calmness to die.     By all the brave should cherish,         By my dying breath,     I ask that I may perish         With a soldier's death!

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
The poem in question is a profound exploration of life, death, and honor, resonating with themes of courage, sacrifice, and the pursuit of a virtuous legacy. The speaker is not afraid of death, but rather, is concerned about the manner of their departure, wishing for a dignified end, specifically, a "soldier's death". This may suggest the speaker's identity as a soldier, or a metaphorical soldier, perhaps battling life's challenges.

The poem is structured as a series of confessions and requests, with a tone that is solemn and determined. The speaker can relinquish familial love, ambitions of fame, and even the joys of life, but clings to the preservation of their "spotless name", demonstrating the high value placed on personal honor and integrity. This plea for a valorous end is addressed to an unseen entity, possibly a deity or fate itself, highlighting the overarching theme of divine or existential control.

Literary devices such as personification (breath asking) and metonymy (a "spotless name" for a virtuous reputation) enrich the text, while the rhythm and rhyme lend a lyrical quality that underscores the poem’s emotional resonance. The repetition in the final lines of each stanza creates a refrain that imbues the piece with a prayer-like quality, reinforcing the speaker's earnest plea for a dignified exit from life. In conclusion, this poem is a poignant meditation on the human condition, valor, and the quest for an honorable legacy.

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.