To Clarinda

By Robert Burns

Lyric Poem
        Clarinda, mistress of my soul,             The measur'd time is run!         The wretch beneath the dreary pole             So marks his latest sun.         To what dark cave of frozen night             Shall poor Sylvander hie;         Depriv'd of thee, his life and light,             The sun of all his joy.         We part, but, by these precious drops             That fill thy lovely eyes!         No other light shall guide my steps             Till thy bright beams arise.         She, the fair sun of all her sex,             Has blest my glorious day;         And shall a glimmering planet fix             My worship to its ray?

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem is a richly emotional exploration of the themes of love, loss, and longing. The speaker, presumably Sylvander, presents his feelings towards Clarinda, the "mistress of his soul," with an intensity that permeates the piece. The tone is melancholic and desperate, with the speaker foreseeing a future of darkness without Clarinda's presence.

The poem's structure consists of four quatrains that follow an ABAB rhyme scheme, which maintains a rhythmic flow and creates a sense of harmony despite the somber content. The use of metaphors and imagery is particularly notable, as it serves to heighten the depth of the speaker’s emotions. The speaker compares himself to a wretch in the dreary pole, inferring a state of desolation and solitude in the absence of his beloved. He further refers to Clarinda as the sun, the source of his joy and guidance, and contrasts her with a glimmering planet, implying that no one else can replace her in his life. This celestial imagery not only amplifies the speaker’s adoration for Clarinda, but also emphasizes his despair at their impending separation. The repetition of light and dark imagery effectively underscores the dichotomy between love and loss, joy and sorrow, presence and absence that characterizes the speaker's emotional state.

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.