Author: Rudyard Kipling
And they were stronger hands than mine That digged the Ruby from the earth, More cunning brains that made it worth The large desire of a king, And stouter hearts that through the brine Went down the perfect Pearl to bring. Lo, I have wrought in common clay Rude figures of a rough-hewn race, Since pearls strew not the market-place In this my town of banishment, Where with the shifting dust I play, And eat the bread of discontent. Yet is there life in that I make. 0 thou who knowest, turn and see, As thou hast power over me So have I power over these, Because I wrought them for thy sake, And breathed in them mine agonies. Small mirth was in the making, now I lift the cloth that cloaks the clay, And, wearied, at thy feet I lay My wares, ere I go forth to sell. The long bazaar will praise, but thou, Heart of my heart, have I done well?
Type of Poem: Lyric Poem
Date Written:
Date Published:
Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Publisher:
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Comments/Notes: This poem explores themes of labor, creation, worth, and validation. The poet juxtaposes the value of precious materials like rubies and pearls, extracted from the earth and sea by stronger, more cunning people, with the simple clay figures he creates. The tone is one of humble introspection and longing, with the speaker reflecting on his craft and seeking validation not from the bustling bazaar, but from a deeply personal, intimate source – the "heart of my heart."
The poem's structure is carefully designed, consisting of quatrains with a consistent ABAB rhyme scheme, which lends a sense of balance and rhythm to the poem. The poet uses vivid imagery and metaphor to communicate the speaker's sense of banishment, discontent, and weariness, heightening the emotional resonance of the poem. The invocation of the "shifting dust" underscores the transient nature of human life and the futility of material pursuits, while the "bread of discontent" is a poignant symbol of the speaker's unfulfilled desires. The poet's use of direct address in the final stanzas heightens the sense of urgency and emotional stakes, as the speaker seeks validation of his worth and the value of his creations. Overall, the poem is a thoughtful exploration of the human need for validation and the profound value of personal, intimate connections.
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:
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.