A Paraphrase, Circa 1715

By Eugene Field

Lyric Poem
    Since Chloe is so monstrous fair,     With such an eye and such an air,     What wonder that the world complains     When she each am'rous suit disdains?     Close to her mother's side she clings,     And mocks the death her folly brings     To gentle swains that feel the smarts     Her eyes inflict upon their hearts.     Whilst thus the years of youth go by,     Shall Colin languish, Strephon die?     Nay, cruel nymph! come, choose a mate,     And choose him ere it be too late!

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem presents a rather playful critique of a young woman's beauty and her perceived aloofness. The central figure, Chloe, is described as being incredibly attractive ("monstrous fair"), yet her indifference towards her admirers seems to cause distress ("the world complains"). The theme of unrequited love is evident, as is the poet's plea for Chloe to consider the feelings of her admirers who suffer from her indifference.

The poem utilises an AABB rhyme scheme, which contributes to its playful and light-hearted tone. The poet's rhetorical questions ("Shall Colin languish, Strephon die?") and the use of classic pastoral names (Colin and Strephon) further enhance the playful, almost teasing nature of the piece. The poet's language and tone suggest a gentle reprimand towards Chloe's aloofness, as well as a sense of urgency for her to choose a suitor before it's too late. This could potentially hint at the societal expectations for women during the time period the poem was written, where they were often encouraged to marry young. The poem also employs personification of "death" to emphasize the extremity of the emotional pain experienced by Chloe's admirers. This hyperbolic portrayal of unrequited love adds a layer of dramatic irony to the poem, further amplifying its playful tone.

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.