Madeline

By Alfred Lord Tennyson

Lyric Poem
I. Thou art not steepd in golden languors, No tranced summer calm is thine, Ever varying Madeline. Thro light and shadow thou dost range, Sudden glances, sweet and strange, Delicious spites and darling angers, And airy forms of flitting change. II. Smiling, frowning, evermore, Thou art perfect in love-lore. Revealings deep and clear are thine Of wealthy smiles; but who may know Whether smile or frown be fleeter? Whether smile or frown be sweeter, Who may know? Frowns perfect-sweet along the brow Light-glooming over eyes divine, Like little clouds sun-fringed, are thine, Ever varying Madeline. Thy smile and frown are not aloof From one another, Each to each is dearest brother; Hues of the silken sheeny woof Momently shot into each other. All the mystery is thine; Smiling, frowning, evermore, Thou art perfect in love-lore, Every varying Madeline. III. A subtle, sudden flame, By veering passion fannd, About thee breaks and dances: When I would kiss thy hand, The flush of angerd shame Oerflows thy calmer glances, And oer black brows drops down A sudden-curved frown: But when I turn away, Thou, willing me to stay, Wooest not, nor vainly wranglest, But, looking fixedly the while, All my bounding heart entanglest In a golden-nettled smile; Then in madness and in bliss, If my lips should dare to kiss Thy taper fingers amorously, Again thou blushest angrily; And oer black brows drops down A sudden-curved frown.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem is a deeply expressive portrayal of the speaker's fascination and emotional entanglement with the elusive, capricious Madeline. The recurring themes of passion, mystery, and unpredictable shifts in mood pervade the poem, making the character of Madeline an embodiment of the paradoxical nature of love. Her alternating smiles and frowns reflect the ever-changing dynamics of their relationship, which sways between affection and conflict.

The structure of the poem, broken down into three parts, draws the reader into a narrative arc of intrigue, revelation, and emotional intensity. The first part paints a picture of Madeline's unpredictable nature, the second part probes deeper into her emotional expressions, and the third part unveils the speaker's passionate yet tumultuous feelings towards her. The tone throughout is characterized by a blend of admiration, frustration, and longing. Key literary devices used include personification, metaphor, and imagery. The "sudden-curved frown" stands as a powerful image of Madeline's quick-changing mood, while her ability to entangle the speaker's heart in a "golden-nettled smile" personifies her allure and power. Through these devices, the poet succeeds in painting a vivid, dynamic image of Madeline, making her a compelling symbol of the volatile, captivating nature of love.

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.