Friendship

By Ella Wheeler Wilcox

Lyric Poem
    Dear friend, I pray thee, if thou wouldst be proving         Thy strong regard for me,     Make me no vows. Lip-service is not loving;         Let thy faith speak for thee.     Swear not to me that nothing can divide us -         So little such oaths mean.     But when distrust and envy creep beside us         Let them not come between.     Say not to me the depths of thy devotion         Are deeper than the sea;     But watch, lest doubt or some unkind emotion         Embitter them for me.     Vow not to love me ever and forever,         Words are such idle things;     But when we differ in opinions, never         Hurt me by little stings.     I'm sick of words: they are so lightly spoken,         And spoken, are but air.     I'd rather feel thy trust in me unbroken         Than list thy words so fair.     If all the little proofs of trust are heeded,         If thou art always kind,     No sacrifice, no promise will be needed         To satisfy my mind.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem centers on themes of love, trust, and sincerity. The speaker implores their friend or lover to show their love through actions and steadfastness, rather than empty words or unkept promises. The tone of the poem is earnest and pleading, reflecting the speaker's desire for a deeper, authentic connection beyond surface-level assurances of affection.

The poem's structure, a series of rhymed couplets, serves to underscore the speaker's clear and direct pleas. Each couplet presents a new aspect of the speaker's request, ranging from avoiding jealousy and distrust to handling disagreements gently. This structure helps to convey the complexity and nuance of the speaker's feelings.

The poem is also marked by its use of metaphor and hyperbole to express the speaker's skepticism towards grandiose declarations of love. Statements such as "the depths of thy devotion are deeper than the sea" are dismissed as insincere and less valuable than consistent, kind actions. This use of literary devices emphasizes the speaker's longing for a love that is steady and reliable, rather than dramatic and inconsistent.

Overall, the poem is a poignant exploration of the distinction between words and actions in the expression of love, revealing a desire for emotional authenticity and constancy in a relationship. The speaker's yearning is universal, making the poem relatable and emotionally resonant for a wide audience.

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.