Neras Wreath

By Victor James Daley

Lyric Poem
    Nera crowns me with a purple wreath     That she with her own dainty hands did twine;     Gold-hearted blossoms and blue buds in sheath,     Mingled with veined green leaves of the wild vine.     Then, bending down her bright head, ah, too nigh!     She asks me for a song: the daylight dies:     The song is still unwritten: still I lie     Watching the purple twilight of her eyes.     I am her laureate; therefore heart of grace     I take to kiss her. Where was song like this?     Love is best sung of in a loveless place,     For who would care to sing where he might kiss?

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem delves into the duality of love and art, exploring the interplay of physical and emotional intimacy with the creation of poetry. The author employs vivid, sensual imagery to paint the scene, utilizing the colors of the wreath (purple, gold, blue, green) as metaphors for the various facets of affection and the creative process. The wreath, a symbol of victory or achievement, becomes a metaphor for the poet's relationship with Nera and his role as her laureate.

The tone of the poem is tender, yet contemplative, with the speaker caught between the desire for romantic intimacy and the demand for artistic expression. The structure of the poem, with its balanced quatrains and consistent rhyme scheme, provides a rhythmic cadence that mirrors the oscillation between love and creativity. In the final two lines, the poet employs a paradox that encapsulates the central tension of the poem: "Love is best sung of in a loveless place, / For who would care to sing where he might kiss?" This poignant and thought-provoking conclusion underscores the inherent conflict between living a moment of love and transcribing it into art.

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.