The Convict. (From The Villagers Verse-Book.)

By William Lisle Bowles

Narrative Poem
     Luke Andrews is transported! Never more      To see his sisters, mother, or the shore      Of his own country! Never more to see      The cottage smoke rise o'er the sheltering tree;      Never again beneath the morning beam,      Jocund, to drive afield his tinkling team!      When first the path of idleness he trod,      And left on Sabbath-days the house of God,      The fellowship of wild companions kept,      How oft at night his mother waked and wept!      When he is homeless, and far off at sea,      She now will sigh, Does he remember me!      Remember her! alas, the thought is vain!      She ne'er will see him in this world again.      And she is broken-hearted; but her trust,      Is still in Him whose works and ways are just.      Oh! may we still revere His dread command,      And die remembered in our native land!

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
The poem is a touching narrative about the consequences of unwise choices and the power of a mother's love. It revolves around Luke Andrews, who has been banished from his homeland as a consequence of his poor choices and a life of idleness. The poet uses vivid imagery to paint the picture of Luke's past life, the "cottage smoke" and "tinkling team" serving as symbols of the simple, peaceful life he once had but chose to abandon. This is contrasted with his current situation, one of isolation and regret.

The tone of the poem is melancholic, imbued with a sense of regret and longing. The recurring theme of separation and loss underscores the consequences of abandoning the righteous path. It also starkly highlights the pain of a mother who is left behind, her heartache palpable as she wonders if her son remembers her. Yet, amidst this sorrow, the poem also speaks of faith and resilience. Luke's mother, although "broken-hearted," places her trust in divine justice, providing a glimmer of hope and strength in the face of despair. Structurally, the poem is composed of rhymed couplets, creating a rhythmic flow that enhances the emotional impact of the narrative. The poet's choice of diction and his adept use of imagery and alliteration contribute to the overall poignant tone of the poem, making it an effective exploration of human emotions and moral lessons.

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.