To The Master Of Balliol

Author: Alfred Lord Tennyson

Dear Master in our classic town,
You, loved by all the younger gown
There at Balliol,
Lay your Plato for one minute down,

II

And read a Grecian tale re-told,
Which, cast in later Grecian mould,
Quintus Calaber
Somewhat lazily handled of old;

III

And on this white midwinter day
For have the far-off hymns of May,
All her melodies,
All her harmonies echod away?

IV

To-day, before you turn again
To thoughts that lift the soul of men,
Hear my cataracts
Downward thunder in hollow and glen,

V

Till, led by dream and vague desire,
The woman, gliding toward the pyre,
Find her warrior
Stark and dark in his funeral fire.
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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 is a poignant blend of academia, classical references, and emotional depth, showcasing the poet's intellectual prowess and rich imagination. The underlying themes seem to be the transient nature of life, the power of knowledge, and an exploration of loss.

The tone of the poem oscillates between a scholarly atmosphere and an emotional lament. The poem begins with the speaker addressing a scholar at Balliol, a renowned college, urging them to momentarily put aside their philosophical studies to hear a reimagined Grecian tale. This setting and request establish a scholarly tone, while the reference to ancient Greece suggests an appreciation for the classics. The narrative then shifts to a more emotional tone as the speaker tells the story of a woman finding her warrior lifeless, signifying loss, and possibly, the futility of war.

The structure of the poem enhances its thematic depth. Broken into five roman numeral sections, the poem moves between settings and moods, reflecting the temporal and emotional shifts in the narrative. The consistent rhyming scheme, ABAB, provides a rhythm which holds the varying sections together, creating cohesiveness in the poem.

The poem is also rich in literary devices. Metaphor is evident in phrases like "hear my cataracts / Downward thunder," which likely symbolizes the poet's intense emotions or profound thoughts. The repetition of "All her melodies, / All her harmonies" emphasizes the lingering echoes of the past, further enhancing the theme of transience.

In conclusion, this poem is a deeply layered piece that combines the intellectual and emotional, the classic and the contemporary, into a nuanced exploration of life's impermanence, knowledge's power, and the human experience of loss.

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.