The Fish

By Gilbert Keith Chesterton

Lyric Poem
    Dark the sea was: but I saw him,     One great head with goggle eyes,     Like a diabolic cherub     Flying in those fallen skies.     I have heard the hoarse deniers,     I have known the wordy wars;     I have seen a man, by shouting,     Seek to orphan all the stars.     I have seen a fool half-fashioned     Borrow from the heavens a tongue,     So to curse them more at leisure--     --And I trod him not as dung.     For I saw that finny goblin     Hidden in the abyss untrod;     And I knew there can be laughter     On the secret face of God.     Blow the trumpets, crown the sages,     Bring the age by reason fed!     (He that sitteth in the heavens,     'He shall laugh'--the prophet said.)

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem is packed with vivid imagery and a distinct narrative voice. It explores themes of human arrogance, cosmic mystery, and divine humor, all woven together with a tone of sardonic reflection. The dark, almost grotesque, descriptions of the "finny goblin" and "diabolic cherub" serve as stark contrasts to the common serene depictions of celestial beings, thus challenging the reader's preconceptions.

Utilizing a rhymed quatrain structure, the poet skillfully employs irony and biblical references to address human attempts to understand and challenge the cosmos, represented by the man "shouting" and the "fool half-fashioned." These characters seem to symbolize human skepticism and audacity respectively, both futilely contending with the enigmatic divine figure.

The poem culminates in an intriguing revelation of divine laughter, suggesting God's amusement at human hubris. It ends with a biblical quote, adding weight to the theme of divine omnipotence and inscrutability. Notably, the poem employs literary devices such as metaphor, allusion, and vivid imagery, effectively painting a picture of a universe far more complex and whimsical than the narrow human perspective can comprehend. Overall, this is a compelling work that challenges readers to reflect on human understanding and our place in the grand scheme of the cosmos.

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.