Muses

Author: Victor James Daley

    The Muse who comes each morning
    In rozy gauze is clad;
    Her head is crowned with flowers,
    Her eyes are clear and glad.

    Upon her virgin bosom
    Bloom lilies of white fire,
    Her tender heart a rose is
    Of delicate desire.

    She is the gentle Goddess
    Who rules the dreams of youth;
    Her wonderful sweet stories
    Are truer than the truth.

    The Muse that comes at midnight,
    When lamps of revel shine,
    Her robe is laburnum,
    All splashed with crimson wine.

    Upon her head defiant,
    She wears a vine-leaf crown,
    And on her naked shoulders,
    Her hair is hanging down.

    And she at times is paler,
    And paler than the dead
    But O her lips are burning,
    And O her lips are red.

    She lifts a brimming goblet,
    She spills three drops on the floor
    "Drink deep and kiss your leman!
    For Death is at the door."

    The gentle Muse of Morning
    Comes now no more to me,
    But with the Muse of Midnight
    I revel royally.
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Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

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 presents a vivid exploration of contrasts and duality, predominantly through the depiction of two Muses - the Muse of Morning and the Muse of Midnight. The Muse of Morning is portrayed as a pure, innocent, and inspiring figure, clothed in "rozy gauze" and crowned with flowers. Her role appears to be that of a guiding spirit, symbolizing hope, dreams, and the idealistic aspirations of youth. The imagery associated with her, such as "lilies of white fire" and a heart like a delicate rose, are emblematic of purity, passion, and tender emotion.

In contrast, the Muse of Midnight is depicted as a more defiant, intoxicating, and potentially destructive force, symbolizing maturity, sensuality, and the inevitability of death. Her robe "splashed with crimson wine" and "burning lips" are powerful symbols of temptation and hedonistic pleasure. Both Muses represent different aspects of life and creativity – the innocent inspiration and the darker, more complex emotions that come with experience. The shift from the gentle Muse of Morning to the Muse of Midnight also suggests the poet's personal journey from innocence to experience, from a placid dream state to a darker, more complicated reality, echoing the natural progression of life.

The structure of the poem, with its regular rhyme scheme and meter, contributes to its musical quality and the vividness of its imagery. The poet's use of personification and metaphor, combined with his rich and evocative language, paints a striking picture of these two contrasting Muses, engaging the reader's senses and emotions. This poem is a compelling exploration of the dual nature of inspiration, the creative process, and the human experience.

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.