Author: Eugene Field

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    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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Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

Publisher:

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/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.