Horace To Phyllis

By Eugene Field

Lyric Poem
    Come, Phyllis, I've a cask of wine     That fairly reeks with precious juices,     And in your tresses you shall twine     The loveliest flowers this vale produces.     My cottage wears a gracious smile,--     The altar, decked in floral glory,     Yearns for the lamb which bleats the while     As though it pined for honors gory.     Hither our neighbors nimbly fare,--     The boys agog, the maidens snickering;     And savory smells possess the air     As skyward kitchen flames are flickering.     You ask what means this grand display,     This festive throng, and goodly diet?     Well, since you're bound to have your way,     I don't mind telling, on the quiet.     'Tis April 13, as you know,--     A day and month devote to Venus,     Whereon was born, some years ago,     My very worthy friend Maecenas.     Nay, pay no heed to Telephus,--     Your friends agree he doesn't love you;     The way he flirts convinces us     He really is not worthy of you!     Aurora's son, unhappy lad!     You know the fate that overtook him?     And Pegasus a rider had--     I say he had before he shook him!     Haec docet (as you must agree):     'T is meet that Phyllis should discover     A wisdom in preferring me     And mittening every other lover.     So come, O Phyllis, last and best     Of loves with which this heart's been smitten,--     Come, sing my jealous fears to rest,     And let your songs be those I've written.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
The poem can be viewed as a playful yet earnest courtship narrative, where the speaker is inviting Phyllis, presumably his lover, to join him in a celebration. The themes of love, jealousy, celebration, and personal preference are prominent. The tone is both persuasive and humorous, with the speaker employing a light-hearted style to convey his serious feelings and intentions.

The structure of the poem is consistent and regular, enhancing the sense of a planned, orderly celebration. The speaker uses vivid, sensory imagery to paint a picture of a joyful event and also to contrast the warmth and appeal of his own love with the insincerity of others (such as Telephus). The poem also includes classical allusions (Aurora's son and Pegasus), which serve to elevate the speaker's argument and add depth to the poem. The final lines, in which the speaker asks Phyllis to sing his own songs, could be interpreted as both a request for her endorsement of his feelings and an assertion of his desire for exclusivity in their relationship.

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.