The Phantom Boat

By Adam Lindsay Gordon

Narrative Poem
The phantom boat is drifting, On the waters wide and free. It floats in the pale moonlight, Like a dream upon the sea. No hand is at the tiller, No voice is heard to guide. It drifts on the restless waves, And is swallowed by the tide. But the phantom boat returns, On nights when the moon is high. And the sailors tell of its ghostly form, As it silently passes by. The phantom boat is drifting, On the waters wide and free. It floats in the pale moonlight, Like a dream upon the sea.
Written: 1867-01-01

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Poem Details

Date Written: 1867-01-01
Date Published: 1870-01-01
Language: English
Keywords: Phantom, Boat, Sea, Moonlight, Ghost
Source: Sea Spray and Smoke Drift
Publisher: Clarson, Massina & Co.
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
A haunting narrative poem that tells the tale of a ghostly boat that drifts on the sea, returning on moonlit nights to haunt the waters.

Exploring Narrative Poetry

Narrative poetry is a form of poetry that tells a story, often making use of the voices of a narrator and characters as well. Unlike lyric poetry, which focuses on emotions and thoughts, narrative poetry is dedicated to storytelling, weaving tales that captivate readers through plot and character development.

Narrative poems are unique in their ability to combine the depth of storytelling with the expressive qualities of poetry. Here are some defining characteristics:

  • Structured Plot: Narrative poems typically have a clear beginning, middle, and end, following a plot that might involve conflict, climax, and resolution, much like a short story or novel.
  • Character Development: Characters in narrative poems are often well-developed, with distinct voices and personalities that drive the story forward.
  • Descriptive Language: The language used in narrative poetry is vivid and descriptive, painting a clear picture of the scenes and events, while also conveying the emotions and atmosphere of the story.

From ancient epics like "The Iliad" and "The Odyssey" to more modern narrative poems, this form continues to engage readers by blending the art of storytelling with the beauty and rhythm of poetry.