A Sentiment

By Oliver Wendell Holmes

Lyric Poem
    The pledge of Friendship! it is still divine,     Though watery floods have quenched its burning wine;     Whatever vase the sacred drops may hold,     The gourd, the shell, the cup of beaten gold,     Around its brim the hand of Nature throws     A garland sweeter than the banquet's rose.     Bright are the blushes of the vine-wreathed bowl,     Warm with the sunshine of Anacreon's soul,     But dearer memories gild the tasteless wave     That fainting Sidney perished as he gave.     'T is the heart's current lends the cup its glow,     Whate'er the fountain whence the draught may flow, -     The diamond dew-drops sparkling through the sand,     Scooped by the Arab in his sunburnt hand,     Or the dark streamlet oozing from the snow,     Where creep and crouch the shuddering Esquimaux;     Ay, in the stream that, ere again we meet,     Shall burst the pavement, glistening at our feet,     And, stealing silent from its leafy hills,     Thread all our alleys with its thousand rills, -     In each pale draught if generous feeling blend,     And o'er the goblet friend shall smile on friend,     Even cold Cochituate every heart shall warm,     And genial Nature still defy reform!

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem touches on the profound theme of friendship and its enduring nature, despite the passing of time and changing circumstances. The poet uses the metaphor of a shared drink, represented in various forms throughout the poem, to symbolize the bond of friendship. This drink, regardless of its container or source, is imbued with the "heart's current," emphasizing the emotional depth and personal connection intrinsic to friendship.

The tone of the poem is both nostalgic and appreciative, underlined by the poet's reference to historical figures like Anacreon and Sir Philip Sidney. These references draw upon the theme of camaraderie and shared experience, implying a deep respect for the value of friendship throughout history. The structure of the poem, flowing and rhythmic, mirrors the continuous and enduring nature of the friendships it celebrates. This is further reflected in the use of water imagery—from "watery floods" to "diamond dew-drops" and "dark streamlet"—which adds a sense of fluidity and constancy. The poet’s use of vivid and contrasting imagery, from the "sunburnt" Arab to the "shuddering Esquimaux," further highlights the universality of friendship, transcending geographical and cultural barriers.

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.