Another Imitation Of Anacreon

By Jean de La Fontaine

Narrative Poem
    PRONE, on my couch I calmly slept     Against my wont.        A little child     Awoke me as he gently crept     And beat my door.     A tempest wild     Was raging-dark and cold the night.     "Have pity on my naked plight,"     He begged, "and ope thy door." - "Thy name?"     I asked admitting him. - "The same     "Anon I'll tell, but first must dry     "My weary limbs, then let me try     "My mois'ened bow." - Despite my fear     The hearth I lit, then drew me near     My guest, and chafed his fingers cold.     "Why fear?" I thought.    "Let me be bold     "No Polyphemus he; what harm     "In such a child? - Then I'll be calm!"     The playful boy drew out a dart,     Shook his fair locks, and to my heart     His shaft he launch'd. - "Love is my name,"     He thankless cried, "I hither came     "To tame thee.    In thine ardent pain     "Of Cupid think and young Climene." -     "Ah! now I know thee, little scamp,     "Ungrateful, cruel boy! Decamp!"     Cupid a saucy caper cut,     Skipped through the door, and as it shut,     "My bow," he taunting cried, "is sound,     "Thy heart, poor comrade, feels the wound."

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem weaves a narrative that engages its readers through a vivid description of an unexpected encounter with the god of love, Cupid. The primary theme of the poem is the unexpected and uncontrollable nature of love, personified by Cupid. The tone is a blend of surprise, fear, and ultimately resignation to the effects of love's arrow.

The poem's structure is narrative and linear, starting from the speaker's peaceful sleep, moving to the surprise visit of the little child, and ending with the revelation of the child's identity and his mischievous departure. The language is formal and the dialogue between the speaker and the child adds a layer of intimacy, making the reader feel as though they are eavesdropping on a private conversation.

The poet skillfully uses personification to give life to the abstract concept of love. Cupid, the embodiment of love, is portrayed as a mischievous child, suggesting the unpredictable, playful, and sometimes cruel nature of love. This is a standout literary device that effectively brings the theme to life.

The final lines, where the speaker recognizes the wound in his heart, symbolize the pain and vulnerability that often accompany love. The poem leaves the reader with a nuanced view of love—something that is as capable of causing pain as it is of bringing joy. This insightful representation of love sets this poem apart, making it a memorable piece of literature.

Exploring Narrative Poetry

Narrative poetry is a form of poetry that tells a story, often making use of the voices of a narrator and characters as well. Unlike lyric poetry, which focuses on emotions and thoughts, narrative poetry is dedicated to storytelling, weaving tales that captivate readers through plot and character development.

Narrative poems are unique in their ability to combine the depth of storytelling with the expressive qualities of poetry. Here are some defining characteristics:

  • Structured Plot: Narrative poems typically have a clear beginning, middle, and end, following a plot that might involve conflict, climax, and resolution, much like a short story or novel.
  • Character Development: Characters in narrative poems are often well-developed, with distinct voices and personalities that drive the story forward.
  • Descriptive Language: The language used in narrative poetry is vivid and descriptive, painting a clear picture of the scenes and events, while also conveying the emotions and atmosphere of the story.

From ancient epics like "The Iliad" and "The Odyssey" to more modern narrative poems, this form continues to engage readers by blending the art of storytelling with the beauty and rhythm of poetry.