To John J. Knickerbocker, Jr

By Eugene Field

Lyric Poem
    Whereas, good friend, it doth appear     You do possess the notion     To his awhile away from here     To lands across the ocean;     Now, by these presents we would show     That, wheresoever wend you,     And wheresoever gales may blow,     Our friendship shall attend you.     What though on Scotia's banks and braes     You pluck the bonnie gowan,     Or chat of old Chicago days     O'er Berlin brew with Cowen;     What though you stroll some boulevard     In Paris (c'est la belle ville!),     Or make the round of Scotland Yard     With our lamented Melville?     Shall paltry leagues of foaming brine     True heart from true hearts sever?     No--in this draught of honest wine     We pledge it, comrade--never!     Though mountain waves between us roll,     Come fortune or disaster--     'Twill knit us closer soul to soul     And bind our friendships faster.     So here's a bowl that shall be quaff'd     To loyalty's devotion,     And here's to fortune that shall waft     Your ship across the ocean,     And here's a smile for those who prate     Of Davy Jones's locker,     And here's a pray'r in every fate--     God bless you, Knickerbocker!

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem celebrates friendship and loyalty, while also exploring themes of travel and separation. The tone is warm, affectionate, and reassuring, emphasizing the enduring connection between the speaker and their friend, regardless of physical distance.

The poem is structured in four stanzas, each with a consistent rhyme scheme (ABAB), which lends a rhythmic, song-like quality to the verse. The language is informal and conversational, yet peppered with references to various global locales, suggesting a worldliness and a sense of adventure in the friend being addressed.

Thematic repetition and the use of direct address ("good friend", "comrade") reinforce the sense of camaraderie and mutual respect shared between the speaker and their friend. The consistent references to drinking (e.g. "draught of honest wine", "bowl that shall be quaff'd") serve as symbolic gestures of togetherness and unity, despite the physical separation implied in the poem.

While the poem is largely optimistic and upbeat, there's also an underlying acknowledgment of life's uncertainties ("fortune or disaster"). This creates a poignant contrast, underscoring the value of dependable friendships and the comfort they provide in an unpredictable world. The closing line, a blessing for the friend, beautifully encapsulates the poem's central message of enduring friendship and mutual support.

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.