Check And Counter-Check.

By Madison Julius Cawein

Lyric Poem
    1     Vent all your coward's wrath      Upon me so! -     Yes, I have crossed your path      And will not go!     2     Storm at me hate, and name      Me all that's vile,     "Lust," "filth," "disease," and "shame,"      I only smile.     3     Me brute rage can not hurt,      It only flings     In your own eyes blind dirt      That bites and stings.     4     Rave at your like such whine,      Your fellow-men,     This wrath! - great God! and mine! -      What is it then?     5     No words! no oaths! such hate      As devils smile     When raw success cries "wait!"      And "afterwhile!"     6     A woman I and ill,      A courtesan     You wearied of, would kill,      And you - a man!     7     You, you - unnamable!      A thing there's not,     Too base to burn in Hell,      Too vile to rot.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem presents a powerful exploration of identity, defiance, and the destructive nature of hate. We see a protagonist, a woman, who firmly resists the barrage of insults, unyielding in the face of degrading accusations. The theme of resilience in the face of societal scorn is central, given the narrator's status as a 'courtesan', a term historically used to denote a high-class prostitute, which brings with it a suggested context of social stigma and judgement.

The poem's structure is consistent, with each stanza composed of four lines, which provides a steady rhythm. This rhythm underscores the steady determination of the protagonist. The tone is defiant, with a sense of resilience and unflinching strength. Key literary devices include direct address, used to create a sense of confrontation, and vivid, emotive language, which amplifies the intensity of the conflict and reinforces the themes of scorn and resilience. The poem also employs stark religious imagery, with references to God, devils, and Hell, which serve to heighten the moral stakes and accentuate the damning nature of the accusations being hurled at the protagonist. Overall, this poem is a compelling exploration of societal judgement, identity, and courage, delivered through a voice that is unwavering in the face of hate.

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.