Cares

By Victor James Daley

Narrative Poem
    Having certain cares to drown,     To the sea I took them down:     And I threw them in the wave,     That engulfed them like a grave.     Swiftly then I plied the oar     With a light heart to the shore.     But behind me came my foes:     Like a nine-days corpse each rose,     And (a ghastly sight to see!)     Clutched the boat and grined at me!     With a heavy heart, alack,     To the land I bore them back.     Not in Water or in Wine     Can I drown these cares of mine.     But some day, for good and sure,     I shall bury them secure,     Where the soil is rich and brown,     With a stone to keep them down,     And to let their end be known,     Have my name carved on the stone;     So that passers-by may say,     Here lie cares that had their day,     And sometimes by moonlight wan,     I may sit that stone upon.     With a spectres solemn phlegm,     In my shroud, and laugh at them;     Or, who knows, when all is said?     Maybe weep because theyre dead.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
The recurring theme in this poem is the struggle with internal conflicts and the desire for emotional liberation. The poet's attempt to metaphorically drown their cares in the sea signifies an effort to escape from their troubles, while the return of these ‘foes’ from the depths illustrates the persistence of unresolved issues. This vivid personification amplifies the psychological torment the poet endures.

The poem's tone oscillates between fleeting hope and inevitable despair, creating an emotional landscape marked by the poet's struggle. Structurally, the piece follows a rhythmic pattern that enhances the narrative flow, mirroring the ebb and flow of the sea, a potent symbol throughout the poem. The final stanzas suggest an eventual acceptance of these 'cares' and the poet's resignation to their irrevocable presence. The poet's contemplation of their own death and how they might react to the death of their troubles—either with scornful laughter or sorrow—adds a layer of somber reflection. The overall effect is a poignant exploration of personal turmoil, the longing for release, and the bittersweet acceptance of life's inherent struggles.

Exploring Narrative Poetry

Narrative poetry is a form of poetry that tells a story, often making use of the voices of a narrator and characters as well. Unlike lyric poetry, which focuses on emotions and thoughts, narrative poetry is dedicated to storytelling, weaving tales that captivate readers through plot and character development.

Narrative poems are unique in their ability to combine the depth of storytelling with the expressive qualities of poetry. Here are some defining characteristics:

  • Structured Plot: Narrative poems typically have a clear beginning, middle, and end, following a plot that might involve conflict, climax, and resolution, much like a short story or novel.
  • Character Development: Characters in narrative poems are often well-developed, with distinct voices and personalities that drive the story forward.
  • Descriptive Language: The language used in narrative poetry is vivid and descriptive, painting a clear picture of the scenes and events, while also conveying the emotions and atmosphere of the story.

From ancient epics like "The Iliad" and "The Odyssey" to more modern narrative poems, this form continues to engage readers by blending the art of storytelling with the beauty and rhythm of poetry.