Author: William Lisle Bowles

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    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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Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

Publisher:

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/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.