Cupids Funeral

Author: Victor James Daley

    By his side, whose days are past,
    Lay bow and quiver!
    And his eyes that stare aghast
    Close, with a shiver.
    God nor man from Death, at last,
    Love may deliver.

    Though, of old, we vowed, my dear,
    Death should not take him;
    Mourn not thou that we must here
    Coldly forsake him;
    Shed above his grave no tear,
    Tears will not wake him.

    Cupid lieth cold and dead,
    Ended his flying,
    Pale his lips, once rosy-red,
    Swift was his dying.
    Place a stone above his head,
    Turn away, sighing.
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Type of Poem: Elegy

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

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Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: This poem is a profound exploration of the themes of love, death, and loss. It adopts a somber tone throughout, marked by grief and resignation. The poet presents a morose picture of a once vibrant being who is now reduced to a lifeless state, symbolizing the end of love or possibly a deep romantic disappointment. The repeated references to death and the finality of it reflect the harsh reality that neither divine nor human intervention can alter.

The structure of the poem, split into three stanzas, effectively highlights the different stages of the narrative: the initial shock, the acceptance, and finally the aftermath of the loss. The poet employs several literary devices, such as personification and vivid imagery, that make the emotions more tangible. The use of phrases like 'eyes that stare aghast,' 'coldly forsake him,' and 'Cupid lieth cold and dead,' paints a vivid picture of the depth of despair experienced. The refrain to not shed tears, to not mourn, is a poignant reminder of the futility of grief in the face of irreversible loss, underlining the poem's overarching theme of heartbreak and resignation. Though steeped in melancholy, the poem resonates with readers by unflinchingly confronting the inevitable end of all things, including love.

Understanding Elegy

An elegy is a form of poetry that expresses sorrow or lamentation, often for someone who has died. This type of poetry serves as a tribute to the deceased, reflecting on their life and the grief left behind.

Elegies are deeply emotional and personal, exploring themes of loss, mourning, and remembrance. Here are some defining characteristics:

  • Mournful Tone: Elegies are characterized by a tone of sadness and reflection, as the poet grapples with the pain of loss.
  • Tribute to the Deceased: The subject of an elegy is often someone who has passed away, with the poem serving as a memorial that honors their life and legacy.
  • Personal Reflection: Elegies often include personal reflections on the impact of the deceased on the poet's life, as well as broader musings on mortality and the human condition.
  • Structure and Form: While elegies can vary in form, they often follow a traditional structure that includes an expression of grief, praise for the deceased, and a sense of consolation or acceptance.

From ancient times to the present, elegies have provided a way for poets to navigate the complexities of grief and loss, offering solace and a means of preserving the memory of those who have passed.