Kate

By Alfred Lord Tennyson

Lyric Poem
I know her by her angry air, Her bright black eyes, her bright black hair, Her rapid laughters wild and shrill, As laughters of the woodpecker From the bosom of a hill. Tis Kateshe sayeth what she will; For Kate hath an unbridled tongue, Clear as the twanging of a harp. Her heart is like a throbbing star. Kate hath a spirit ever strung Like a new bow, and bright and sharp As edges of the scimitar. Whence shall she take a fitting mate? For Kate no common love will feel; My woman-soldier, gallant Kate, As pure and true as blades of steel. Kate saith the world is void of might. Kate saith the men are gilded flies. Kate snaps her fingers at my vows; Kate will not hear of lovers sighs. I would I were an armed knight, Far-famed for well-won enterprise, And wearing on my swarthy brows The garland of new-wreathed emprise; For in a moment I would pierce The blackest files of clanging fight, And strongly strike to left and right, In dreaming of my ladys eyes. O, Kate loves well the bold and fierce; But none are bold enough for Kate, She cannot find a fitting mate.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem exhibits a lively, even somewhat tumultuous portrayal of 'Kate', a character who is depicted as strong, independent, and unyielding. The repetition of her name throughout the poem underscores the central focus on her character and adds an element of familiarity. The use of vivid imagery, such as "her bright black eyes, her bright black hair," and "her heart is like a throbbing star," paint a picture of a woman who is vibrant and full of life. The similes and metaphors used here serve to underline her strength and vitality.

The tone of the poem is both admiring and melancholic. The speaker admires Kate for her boldness and spirit, but also laments that there is no one bold enough to match her. The theme of unrequited love is also very apparent, with the speaker longing to be worthy of her. Interestingly, the structure of the poem reinforces this theme, with the shorter lines and stanzas creating a sense of immediacy and urgency. The poem ends on a note of unresolved tension, as it becomes clear that Kate's independent spirit and the speaker's longing for her remain unresolved. This leaves the reader to contemplate the complexities of love and attraction.

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.