Author: John Frederick Freeman

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    That you might happier be than all the rest,
    Than I who have been happy loving you,
    Of all the innocent even the happiest--
    This I beseeched for you.

    Until I thought of those unending skies--
    Of stagnant cloud, or fleckless dull blue air,
    Of days and nights delightless, no surprise,
    No threat, no sting, no fear;

    And of the stirless waters of the mind,
    Waveless, unfurrowed, of no living hue,
    With dead eaves dropping slowly in no wind,
    And nothing flowering new.

    And then no more I wished you happiness,
    But that whatever fell of joy or woe
    I would not dare, O Sweet, to wish it less,
    Or wish you less than you.

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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 poignant exploration of love, selflessness, and human nature. The speaker begins by expressing a desire for the beloved's happiness, even if it surpasses their own—a testament to their selfless love. However, the speaker then contemplates the monotony of a life without challenges, represented through imagery of stagnation: "unending skies", "stagnant cloud," waveless waters, and lifeless landscapes. This highlights a shift in the speaker's initial wish, suggesting that unblemished happiness may not be the ultimate goal.

In the final stanza, the speaker no longer wishes sheer happiness for the beloved, but instead a life filled with genuine experiences, whether they bring joy or sorrow. This shift in tone from self-sacrificing love to a more nuanced understanding of life's complexity presents a profound commentary on human existence. It underscores that life's richness emanates from its ups and downs, its "joy or woe," rather than constant happiness.

Structurally, the poem uses ABAB rhyme scheme and rhythmic meter, creating a melodic quality that mirrors traditional love poetry. However, the thematic depth and surprising turn of events differentiate it from the genre's conventions. The poet's use of vivid metaphor and imagery also enrich the narrative, enabling the reader to fully grasp the abstract concepts being explored. Altogether, the poem is a heartfelt expression of love and a contemplative piece on the essence of human life.