Horace to Melpomene by Eugene Field
The poem explores the theme of nostalgia and longing for a past time and place. The speaker addresses Melpomene, the Greek muse of tragedy, to express their desire to return to a bygone era. They yearn for a time when life was simpler and more carefree, evoking a sense of melancholy and wistfulness.
By Eugene Field · First published 1893 · Genre: Poetry, Classical Literature, Lyric · 200 words
First lines
Lofty and enduring is the monument I've reared, -- / Come, tempests, with your bitterness assailing; / And thou, corrosive blasts of time, by all things mortal feared, / Thy buffets and thy rage are unavailing!
I shall not altogether die; by far my greater part / Shall mock man's common fate in realms infernal; / My works shall live as tributes to my genius and my art, -- / My works shall be my monument eternal!
While this great Roman empire stands and gods protect our fanes, / Mankind with grateful hearts shall tell the story, / How one most lowly born upon the parched Apulian plains / First raised the native lyric muse to glory.
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse and employs poetic devices, focusing on themes of legacy and artistic immortality.
- Classical Literature — The references to Roman culture and the invocation of Melpomene indicate a connection to classical themes and figures.
- Lyric — The personal expression of emotions and thoughts about art and legacy aligns with the characteristics of lyric poetry.
- Elegy — The themes of mortality and the enduring nature of art suggest elements typical of elegiac poetry.
Tags
Poetry · Classical Reference · Mythology · Greek Gods · Literary Allusion · Whimsy · Humor · Satire · Irony · Wit · Playfulness · Lighthearted
What this Textopian page supports
Horace to Melpomene is listed on Textopian as a poem by Eugene Field, dated 1893 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Eugene Field
- Date: 1893 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Classical Literature, Lyric, Elegy, Inspirational
- Length: 200 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
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