A Cameo.

Author: Madison Julius Cawein

    Why speak of Giamschid rubies
    Whence rosy starlight drips?
    I know a richer crimson,
    The ruby of her lips.

    Why speak of pearls of Oman
    That shells of ocean sheathe?
    I know a purer nacre,
    The white pearls of her teeth.

    Why tell me of the sapphires
    That Kings and Khalifs prize?
    I know a lovelier azure,
    The sapphires of her eyes.

    Go search the far Earth over,
    Go search the farthest sea,
    You will not find a cameo
    Like her God carved for me.
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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 splendidly romantic poem presents an intimate comparison between the beauty of precious gems and the allure of a loved one's attributes. The poet employs a repeated structure for each stanza, using rhetorical questions to create a sense of dialogue, drawing the reader into his reflections. Each question is followed by an assertion that the beauty of the beloved surpasses the allure of precious gems, emphasizing the richness of personal love over material wealth.

The poem's central themes are love and beauty, and the tone is one of adoration and reverence. The poet's use of rich, vivid imagery allows the reader to visualize the colors and luster of the gems, only to then juxtapose these with the personal, intimate beauty of the beloved. The poet also employs metaphor, with the beloved's physical features being compared to rubies, pearls, and sapphires. The poem concludes with a triumphant declaration of the beloved's singular, unmatched beauty, "carved" by God, underscoring the divine nature of the beauty he perceives in her. This poem, in its structure and imagery, serves as a testament to an overarching theme of personal love transcending worldly possessions.

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.