Author: Alfred Lord Tennyson

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We were two daughters of one race;
She was the fairest in the face.
The wind is blowing in turret and tree.
They were together, and she fell;
Therefore revenge became me well.
O, the earl was fair to see!

She died; she went to burning flame;
She mixd her ancient blood with shame.
The wind is howling in turret and tree.
Whole weeks and months, and early and late,
To win his love I lay in wait.
O, the earl was fair to see!

I made a feast; I bade him come;
I won his love, I brought him home.
The wind is roaring in turret and tree.
And after supper, on a bed,
Upon my lap he laid his head.
O, the earl was fair to see!

I kissd his eyelids into rest,
His ruddy cheek upon my breast.
The wind is raging in turret and tree.
I hated him with the hate of hell,
But I loved his beauty passing well.
O, the earl was fair to see!

I rose up in the silent night;
I made my dagger sharp and bright.
The wind is raving in turret and tree.
As half-asleep his breath he drew,
Three times I stabbd him thro and thro.
O, the earl was fair to see!

I curld and combd his comely head,
He lookd so grand when he was dead.
The wind is blowing in turret and tree.
I wrapt his body in the sheet,
And laid him at his mothers feet.
O, the earl was fair to see!

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Type of Poem: Ballad

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

Publisher:

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: This poem unfolds as a darkly compelling narrative, exploring themes of jealousy, revenge, love, and obsession. The story of two daughters locked in a rivalry over an earl's affection is told with a tragic and emotionally charged tone, culminating in a brutal act of murder.

The poem's structure is marked by its consistent repetition of certain lines, which serves to heighten the tension and give a sense of foreboding. The recurring line, "The wind is blowing in turret and tree," acts as a chilling refrain, creating a backdrop of constant turbulence and unrest that mirrors the speaker's emotional turmoil. The repeated declaration, "O, the earl was fair to see!" underscores the fixation on physical beauty that drives the speaker's actions, reflecting the destructive power of superficial love.

The poem's language is simple yet powerful, using vivid imagery and stark contrasts to convey the speaker's complexity of feelings. The stark contrast between the speaker's tender actions and her murderous intent is particularly striking, revealing a deeply conflicted character. The use of the first person narrative gives the poem a deeply personal and confessional feel, pulling readers into the speaker's tortured psyche.

Overall, this poem is a gripping exploration of the darker aspects of human emotions, demonstrating how love can twist into hate and obsession. Its haunting tone and vivid imagery leave a lasting impact, challenging readers to reflect on the destructive power of jealousy and superficial attraction.