A Lyke-Wake Dirge by Alice Meynell

Name: A Lyke-Wake Dirge
Author: Alice Meynell

"A Lyke-Wake Dirge" is a poem written by Alice Meynell in 1893. The poem tells the story of a ghostly procession of souls making their way to the afterlife, led by the "Lyke-Wake Dirge," a hollow-eyed figure who heralds the end of life on earth. The poem is known for its haunting imagery and use of alliteration, creating a sense of eerie atmosphere and mourning.

By Alice Meynell · First published 1892 · Genre: Poetry, Religious, Victorian Literature · 346 words

First lines

THIS ae nighte, this ae nighte,

"Every nighte and alle",

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A Lyke-Wake Dirge is listed on Textopian as a poem by Alice Meynell, dated 1892 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Alice Meynell
Date: 1892 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Religious, Victorian Literature
Length: 346 words
Structure: 1 section, 15 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Genres

Poetry — Alice Meynell is well known for her poetry and this work is a collection of her poems. The title itself is a reference to a type of traditional English folk song, suggesting a lyrical or poetic form.
Religious — Lyke-Wake Dirge was traditionally sung at the vigil held over a dead body (the lyke). This, together with many spiritual themes present in Meynell's body of work, points towards a religious genre.
Victorian Literature — Alice Meynell was active during the Victorian era and her works reflect the moral, cultural, and social concerns of that period.