Greenwich Hospital

By William Lisle Bowles

Lyric Poem
    Come to these peaceful seats, and think no more     Of cold, of midnight watchings, or the roar     Of Ocean, tossing on his restless bed!     Come to these peaceful seats, ye who have bled     For honour, who have traversed the great flood,     Or on the battle's front with stern eye stood,     When rolled its thunder, and the billows red     Oft closed, with sudden flashings, o'er the dead!     Oh, heavy are the sorrows that beset     Old age! and hard it is, hard to forget     The sunshine of our youth, our manhood's pride!     But here, O aged men! ye may abide     Secure, and see the last light on the wave     Of Time, which wafts you silent to your grave;     Like the calm evening ray, that smiles serene     Upon the tranquil Thames, and cheers the sinking scene.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem is a solemn and contemplative piece that primarily explores themes of aging, honor, memory, and tranquility. The tone is one of both melancholy and quiet consolation, offering a retreat to those who have endured hardship and warfare. The repeated phrase, "Come to these peaceful seats," sets a rhythmic refrain and creates an image of a safe, serene harbor.

The poem is structured with a combination of longer and shorter lines, which creates a sense of ebb and flow much like the ocean waves it describes. The poet uses vivid and evocative imagery, such as "the roar of Ocean, tossing on his restless bed" and "the last light on the wave of Time," to portray the turmoil of life and the inevitable passage of time. These metaphors of the ocean and light convey the struggles and eventual tranquility that comes with age.

The poem also uses juxtaposition effectively, contrasting the tumultuous past with the peaceful present, and the vibrancy of youth with the quietude of old age. This contrast culminates in the final image of the gentle evening ray on the Thames, symbolizing the tranquil end of life. Thus, the poem, while acknowledging the hardships of life and the sorrow of aging, ultimately presents a comforting message of peace and acceptance.

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.