The Robin Redbreast. (From The Villagers Verse-Book.)

By William Lisle Bowles

Lyric Poem
     Poor Robin sits and sings alone     When showers of driving sleet,     By the cold winds of winter blown,     The cottage casement beat.      Come, let him share our chimney nook,     And dry his dripping wing;     See, little Mary shuts her book,     And cries, "Poor Robin, sing!"      Methinks I hear his faint reply:     When cowslips deck the plain,     The lark shall carol in the sky,     And I shall sing again.      But in the cold and wintry day,     To you I owe a debt,     That in the sunshine of the May     I never can forget!

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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 poignant exploration of compassion, resilience, and mutual dependence, as well as a reflection on the cyclical nature of life. The poet uses the simple interaction between a Robin and humans to depict these themes. The atmosphere is at once relatable and evocative, painting a vivid picture of a cold winter day, a cozy cottage, and the shared warmth between man and nature.

The structure of the poem is traditional, using a tight rhythm and rhyme scheme to create a sense of harmony and order. This serves to reinforce the underlying theme of cyclical continuity, and the balance between giving and receiving. In terms of literary devices, the poet uses personification to give the Robin a voice, enabling it to express gratitude and promise a return of the favor when spring arrives. This not only adds an emotional depth to the poem but also further emphasizes the interconnectedness of all living creatures. The endearing image of 'little Mary' closing her book to listen to the Robin creates a vivid contrast between the indoor warmth and the harsh winter outside, underlining the theme of compassion and shelter against adversity. Overall, this poem is a skillful blend of imagery, emotion, and philosophy, offering a touching reflection on the relationships between humans and nature, and the cyclic patterns of life.

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.