The Deserted House

By Alfred Lord Tennyson

Lyric Poem
I. Life and Thought have gone away Side by side, Leaving door and windows wide; Careless tenants they! II. All within is dark as night: In the windows is no light; And no murmur at the door, So frequent on its hinge before. III. Close the door, the shutters close, Or thro the windows we shall see The nakedness and vacancy Of the dark deserted house. IV. Come away; no more of mirth Is here or merry-making sound. The house was builded of the earth, And shall fall again to ground. V. Come away; for Life and Thought Here no longer dwell, But in a city glorious A great and distant cityhave bought A mansion incorruptible. Would they could have stayed with us!

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poignant poem explores themes of departure, emptiness, and mortality, juxtaposed with the promise of an eternal dwelling. It commences with the personification of 'Life' and 'Thought' as transient occupants of a house, symbolizing the human body or life. The desolation left behind by their departure is vividly portrayed through stark imagery of darkness and silence.

The structure of the poem, divided into distinct sections, enhances the progression of the narrative - from the initial abandonment, to the closing of the house, and finally, the hint of a sublime, incorruptible city. This structure lends a sense of inevitability and natural progression to the themes of life, death, and afterlife.

The tone of the poem fluctuates between melancholy, contemplation, and a subtle undercurrent of hope. The use of simple, yet powerful language and imagery, such as 'dark deserted house' and 'mansion incorruptible', allows the poet to navigate these complex themes with an accessible and profound resonance. The poem's concluding lines introduce a note of longing, suggesting the human wish for permanence and the struggle to let go, even in the face of an eternal city. This adds a layer of complexity, making it not just a meditation on mortality, but also on human attachment and the fear of the unknown.

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.