To My Lady

Author: Victor James Daley

    When the tender hand of Night
    Like a rose-leaf falls
    Softly on your starry eyes;
    When the Sleep-God calls,
    And the gate of dreams is wide,
    Wide the painted halls,
    Dream the dream I send to you
    Through your spirits walls!

    Dream a lowly lover came,
    Lady fair to woo;
    Dream that I the lover was,
    And the lady, you;
    Dream your answer was a kiss,
    Warm as summer dew,
    Waking, in the rosy dawn,
    Let the dream be true!
Send via Email Share via WhatsApp Share on X

Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

Publisher:

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: This poem is a tender and intimate exploration of love, dreams, and desire. The poet employs lush, evocative imagery to create a dreamlike atmosphere, setting the stage for the romantic and slightly mystical themes that unfold. Night and sleep are presented not as a cessation of consciousness, but as an opportunity for the speaker to commune with the beloved through dreams, adding an element of magic and transcendence to the narrative.

The tone of the poem is gentle and pleading; the speaker implores the subject to dream of their union and to allow that dream to manifest into reality. The structure of the poem, composed of two stanzas of equal length, mirrors this dual state of dream and reality, emphasizing the desired transformation of the dream into a tangible experience. The recurring theme of love and longing is underscored by the use of romantic and sensual metaphors, such as a kiss "warm as summer dew", and the comparison of the night's touch to a "rose-leaf". These literary devices enhance the poem's emotional power, making the speaker's yearning palpable and relatable to the reader.

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.