Bashful Gleeson

By Edward Dyson

Narrative Poem
Young Gleeson was bashful, and when he grew up He blushed like a girl at the name of a cup; He turned from a tankard or bottle with scorn, And once in a bar-room he said he was born With a thirst that could swallow the sea, But he’d sooner drink ink than drink tea. Young Gleeson was tall, with the heart of a maid, He never knew what it was to be afraid; He would fight like a madman when cornered at last, But with women and liquor he always went fast. He was bashful and soft in the heart, But with men he was always too smart. He drank ginger-beer when the boys took their rum, He laughed when they jested and called him “Old Mum,” He hated a smoke, and he turned from a drink As a cat turns away from a bath or a sink. But the boys said that Gleeson was straight, And they liked him the more for his hate. Young Gleeson grew rich, and he took him a wife, And he lived like a lord for the rest of his life; But the boys said that Gleeson had grown a bit fast, That the blushes had faded, the bashfulness passed. For the men who were quick in a fight, Were the ones that he chose for his right.
Written: 1890-01-01

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Poem Details

Date Written: 1890-01-01
Date Published: 1890-01-01
Language: English
Keywords: Personality, Youth, Bashfulness, Social Life, Transformation
Source: Public Domain Collection
Publisher: E. Dyson
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
A narrative poem about a young man named Gleeson, whose bashfulness and refusal to drink or smoke set him apart from others, but who eventually transforms as he grows older and wealthier.

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.