Ask Me No More

By Alfred Lord Tennyson

Lyric Poem
Ask me no more: the moon may draw the sea; The cloud may stoop from heaven and take the shape, With fold to fold, of mountain or of cape; But O too fond, when have I answer'd thee? Ask me no more. Ask me no more: what answer should I give? I love not hollow cheek or faded eye: Yet, O my friend, I will not have thee die! Ask me no more, lest I should bid thee live; Ask me no more. Ask me no more: thy fate and mine are seal'd: I strove against the stream and all in vain: Let the great river take me to the main: No more, dear love, for at a touch I yield; Ask me no more.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
In this deeply emotional poem, the poet explores themes of love, mortality, and the struggles of emotional vulnerability. The poem's tone is a mixture of melancholy and resignation, which results in a poignant lament that resonates with the reader. The speaker repeatedly implores an unnamed addressee to "Ask me no more," a refrain that not only structures the poem but also underscores the speaker's emotional turmoil.

The speaker seems to be in a dialogue with a loved one, possibly a romantic partner, and the repeated plea to cease questioning suggests a painful conversation or situation. The poet uses powerful metaphors to illustrate the speaker’s inner struggle - the moon drawing the sea, the cloud taking shape from heaven, which highlight the natural, inevitable forces at work, comparable to the speaker's feelings.

The poet's use of paradox in "I love not hollow cheek or faded eye: Yet, O my friend, I will not have thee die!" is particularly striking, revealing a complex emotional state wherein the speaker is torn between rejecting the physical signs of mortality and a desperate desire to preserve the life of the loved one. The final stanza reveals the speaker’s surrender to circumstances beyond their control, reinforcing the theme of resignation and acceptance that permeates the poem.

The poem’s structure, with its repetitive plea, enhances its emotional impact, while its rich metaphoric language and exploration of universal themes lend it a timeless quality.

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.