To His Lute

By Eugene Field

Lyric Poem
    If ever in the sylvan shade     A song immortal we have made,     Come now, O lute, I prithee come,     Inspire a song of Latium!     A Lesbian first thy glories proved;     In arms and in repose he loved     To sweep thy dulcet strings, and raise     His voice in Love's and Liber's praise.     The Muses, too, and him who clings     To Mother Venus' apron-strings,     And Lycus beautiful, he sung     In those old days when you were young.     O shell, that art the ornament     Of Phoebus, bringing sweet content     To Jove, and soothing troubles all,--     Come and requite me, when I call!

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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 richly textured invocation of the creative muse, rooted in the classical tradition. The poet's plea to the "lute" to inspire a song signifies the struggle for artistic inspiration, and his references to "Latium" and "Lesbian" allude to ancient Roman and Greek cultures, suggesting a deep respect for these traditions of art, music, and poetry.

The poem's tone is one of humble reverence and earnest longing. The poet draws upon figures from classical mythology, such as Venus, to embody the creative and love-inspired energy he seeks. Notably, he also mentions "Lycus", a figure who could represent beauty or youth, adding an element of nostalgia and reminiscence to the work. The phrase "In those old days when you were young" further underscores this sense of longing for a past era of creative vitality.

The poem's structure is consistent and rhythmic, lending a musical quality that echoes the theme of song and the recurring image of the lute. This musicality is complemented by the poet's use of direct address, which creates a sense of intimacy and immediacy. The final appeal to the "shell," a symbol of the lute and of the poet's craft, encapsulates the poem's central theme of artistic endeavor and its need for divine or muse-inspired aid. The poem beautifully illustrates the timeless struggle of the artist for inspiration and the longing for creative fulfilness.

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.