Horatian Lyrics. Odes I, 23.

By Eugene Field

Lyric Poem
    Why do you shun me, Chloe, like the fawn,     That, fearful of the breezes and the wood,     Has sought her timorous mother since the dawn     And on the pathless mountain tops has stood?     Her trembling heart a thousand fears invites--     Her sinking knees with nameless terrors shake;     Whether the rustling leaf of spring affrights,     Or the green lizards stir the slumbering brake.     I do not follow with a tigerish thought     Or with the fierce Gaetulian lion's quest;     So, quickly leave your mother, as you ought,     Full ripe to nestle on a husband's breast.

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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 potent exploration of unrequited love, fear, and maturation. With a pastoral setting reflective of Romantic works, the speaker uses the metaphor of a timid fawn to represent the subject, Chloe, who is depicted as fearful and elusive. This is a common theme in romantic poetry, where the subject of affection is often elusive or unattainable.

The poem's tone is one of longing and mild frustration, as the speaker seeks to reassure Chloe of his non-threatening intentions. The imagery of the 'tigerish thought' and 'fierce Gaetulian lion' serves to contrast his nature with that of a predator, thereby emphasizing his gentle pursuit. This vivid imagery, combined with the personification of the fawn's 'trembling heart' and 'sinking knees', evokes empathy in the reader, further enhancing the emotional depth of the poem.

The structure of the poem is formal and regular, with a clear ABAB rhyme scheme, which adds a rhythmic quality to the reading. This rhythmic flow creates a soothing musicality that contrasts starkly with the poem's content, thereby heightening the sense of unfulfilled longing.

The final lines suggest an expectation of Chloe's maturation and readiness for love, signifying the speaker's persistent hope. This poem, therefore, masterfully captures the nuanced dynamics of unrequited love, youthful fear, and the passage to maturity.

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.