To Chloe I

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 Gtulian 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 in question is a melancholic and poignant exploration of unrequited love, employing vivid nature imagery to depict the feelings of longing and fear. The speaker addresses Chloe, a woman who appears to avoid him, much like a timid fawn that fears the unknown elements of the woods. The use of the fawn metaphor underscores Chloe's innocence and fear, while simultaneously highlighting the speaker's frustration and longing.

The theme of unrequited love is accentuated by a tone of tender desperation. The speaker insists that he does not pose a threat, much like a predator in the wild, but instead seeks her companionship and love. His plea for Chloe to leave her mother's side suggests his desire for her to mature and accept his love, further emphasizing the emotional distance between them. The poem's structure, four quatrains, provides a steady rhythm that mirrors the speaker's unchanging affection and persistent hope.

The standout literary device in this poem is the use of nature to symbolize human emotions and situations, often referred to as the Pathetic Fallacy. This technique amplifies the intensity of the speaker's feelings and the complexity of the situation. The use of this device makes the poem emotionally resonant and keeps the reader engaged with its narrative.

In conclusion, this poem is an evocative portrayal of unrequited love, characterized by its use of natural imagery, its emotive tone, and its steady, rhythmic structure. The speaker's longing for Chloe's love is palpable, making the poem a poignant exploration of human emotions.

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.