To Lydia II

Author: Eugene Field

    When praising Telephus you sing
    His rosy neck and waxen arms,
    Forgetful of the pangs that wring
    This heart for my neglected charms,

    Soft down my cheek the tear-drop flows,
    My color comes and goes the while,
    And my rebellious liver glows,
    And fiercely swells with laboring bile.

    Perchance yon silly, passionate youth,
    Distempered by the fumes of wine,
    Has marred your shoulder with his tooth,
    Or scarred those rosy lips of thine.

    Be warned; he cannot faithful prove,
    Who, with the cruel kiss you prize,
    Has hurt the little mouth I love,
    Where Venus's own nectar lies.

    Whom golden links unbroken bind,
    Thrice happy--more than thrice are they;
    And constant, both in heart and mind,
    In love await the final day.
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Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

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Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: The poem presents a compelling exploration of unrequited love, jealousy, and heartbreak. It is underscored by a tone of melancholy, frustration, and longing, which is vividly articulated through the speaker's emotional reaction to the praises sung for Telephus. Themes of beauty and neglect are introduced in the first stanza, as the speaker laments the attention given to Telephus, sparking an intolerable emotional pain.

The structure of the poem is consistent, adhering to a regular rhythm and rhyme scheme, which juxtaposes the emotional turbulence portrayed in the content. The use of explicit bodily metaphor in the second stanza, referring to the tear, the changing color, and the "rebellious liver," is a powerful device that conveys the speaker's intense emotional turmoil. This emotional rawness continues through the third stanza, where the speaker imagines physical injuries inflicted upon their beloved through the passion of another.

In the final two stanzas, the poet employs a cautionary tone, warning of the potential unfaithfulness of Telephus. The concluding lines introduce a new theme of constancy and commitment in love, revealing a profound yearning for a bond that endures until the "final day." This longing brings a poignant depth to the speaker's plight, adding another layer of emotional complexity to the narrative. Overall, the poem is a beautifully constructed, deeply moving exploration of unrequited love and longing.

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.