To Professor Jebb

Author: Alfred Lord Tennyson

Fair things are slow to fade away,
Bear witness you, that yesterday1
From out the Ghost of Pindar inyou
Rolld an Olympian; and they say2

That here the torpid mummy wheat
Of Egypt bore a grain as sweet
As that which gilds the glebe of England,
Sunnd with a summer of milder heat.

So may this legend for awhile,
If greeted by your classic smile,
Tho dead in its Trinacrian Enna,
Blossom again on a colder isle.
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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: The poem under review subtly interweaves themes of time, legacy, and regeneration, using a rich array of natural and historical imagery. The tone of the poem is reflective yet hopeful, underscoring the enduring power and resilience of 'fair things'—beauty, truth, or perhaps artistic achievement.

Despite its brevity, the poem employs a nuanced structure to convey its themes. It opens with a declaration about the enduring nature of 'fair things', before transitioning into a series of metaphoric images to illustrate this point. This includes a reference to Pindar, the ancient Greek lyric poet, and his enduring influence (a symbol of the immortality of art), and the mummy wheat of Egypt, which despite its age, is said to have borne a sweet grain (symbolizing the potential for renewal and longevity). The comparison to the wheat growing in England’s milder summer implies that even in different or less ideal conditions, beauty and goodness can still thrive. These images serve to emphasize the lasting impact of significant cultural contributions, despite the passage of time or changing circumstances.

The poem closes with a hopeful note, suggesting that even legends thought to be dead can blossom again if they are greeted with appreciation and understanding. This could be interpreted as an encouragement for the preservation and renewal of artistic and cultural heritage. The poem utilizes a skillful blend of allusion, metaphor, and imagery to present its themes, resulting in a rich textual tapestry that invites contemplation and reflection.

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.