Horace to Phyllis by Eugene Field
The poem is a lamentation of the passing of youth and beauty. The speaker addresses Phyllis, who has lost her beauty and charm. He describes how she was once lovely, with hair like gold and skin like alabaster, but now she is old and faded. The poem explores the theme of mortality and the fleeting nature of physical beauty.
By Eugene Field · First published 1897 · Genre: Lyric Poetry, Romantic Poetry, Pastoral Poetry · 368 words
First lines
Come, Phyllis, I've a cask of wine That fairly reeks with precious juices, And in your tresses you shall twine The loveliest flowers this vale produces.
My cottage wears a gracious smile, -- The altar, decked in floral glory, Yearns for the lamb which bleats the while As though it pined for honors gory.
What this Textopian page supports
Horace to Phyllis is listed on Textopian as a poem by Eugene Field, dated 1897 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: 1897 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Lyric Poetry, Romantic Poetry, Pastoral Poetry, Celebratory Poetry, Narrative Poetry
- Length: 368 words
- Structure: 1 section, 9 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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- Work identity for Horace to Phyllis by Eugene Field
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Horace to Phyllis?
- How does this poem by Eugene Field fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Lyric Poetry first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Lyric Poetry — The poem expresses personal emotions and thoughts, characteristic of lyric poetry.
- Romantic Poetry — The themes of love and admiration for Phyllis align with the conventions of romantic poetry.
- Pastoral Poetry — The setting and references to nature and rural life reflect pastoral elements.
- Celebratory Poetry — The poem celebrates a specific occasion, emphasizing festivity and joy.
Tags
Poetry · Romantic · Whimsical · Humorous · Light Verse · Epistolary · Love Letters · Courtship · Flirtation · Wit · Satire · Irony