Lute Song

Author: Madison Julius Cawein

    What will you send her,
    What will you tell her,
    That shall unbend her,
    That shall compel her?

    Love, that shall fold her
    So naught can sever;
    Truth, that shall hold her
    Ever and ever.

    What will you do then
    So she 'll ne' er grieve you?
    Knowing you true then
    Never will leave you?

    I 'll lay before here,
    There in her bower,
    Aye to adore her,
    My heart like a flower.
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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 beautiful exploration of love and devotion, imbued with a sense of longing and timeless passion. The poet uses a simple, yet effective, structure of questions and answers, which provides a rhythmic, song-like quality to the poem, making it feel like an intimate conversation or a lover's vow.

The main themes that emerge are love, truth, and fidelity. The poet seeks to express his love in a way that will convince the object of his affection of his sincerity and loyalty. The language used, such as "unbend her," "compel her," "ne'er grieve you," and "never will leave you," gives a sense of the struggle and the desire to overcome potential obstacles in their relationship.

The poem's tone is earnest and tender, effectively conveying the speaker's loving intent. The final stanza, with its imagery of laying one's heart like a flower before the beloved, is especially poignant. It is a metaphor for both vulnerability and adoration, underscoring the poet's willingness to bare his soul for the sake of love. This poem, therefore, presents a heartfelt and moving depiction of enduring love and the lengths one might go to express it.

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.