Milton (Alcaics)

Author: Alfred Lord Tennyson

O mighty-mouth'd inventor of harmonies,
O skill'd to sing of Time or Eternity,
God-gifted organ-voice of England,
Milton, a name to resound for ages;
Whose Titan angels, Gabriel, Abdiel,
Starr'd from Jehovah's gorgeous armouries,
Tower, as the deep-domed empyrean
Rings to the roar of an angel onset--
Me rather all that bowery loneliness,
The brooks of Eden mazily murmuring,
And bloom profuse and cedar arches
Charm, as a wanderer out in ocean,
Where some refulgent sunset of India
Streams o'er a rich ambrosial ocean isle,
And crimson-hued the stately palm-woods
Whisper in odorous heights of even.
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Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

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Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: This poem conveys a profound admiration for the poet John Milton, lauding him as a divine voice of England and a master of harmonious verse. The initial stanza positions Milton as a timeless figure, "mighty-mouth'd" and "skill'd to sing of Time or Eternity", suggesting a poet whose work transcends temporal limitations. The mention of "Titan angels" and "Jehovah's gorgeous armouries" reflects Milton's own biblical themes, particularly his epic work, "Paradise Lost". This creates a tone of reverence and awe.

The second part of the poem shifts from grand, celestial imagery to a more intimate and earthly celebration of nature. The speaker seems to express a preference for the "bowery loneliness," "brooks of Eden," and "cedar arches", invoking an Edenic landscape that is both serene and vibrant. The final image of the "refulgent sunset of India" over an "ambrosial ocean isle" serves as a metaphorical climax, combining exotic, far-reaching imagery with rich sensory details to create an overwhelming sense of beauty. The use of enjambment and alliteration throughout the poem lends a rhythmic, flowing quality to the verse, mirroring both the harmonious song of Milton and the natural beauty it celebrates. Ultimately, the poem stands as a tribute to Milton's poetic genius, and a meditation on the enduring allure of nature and the sublime.

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.