Off Cape Colonna (Poems from Timoleon)
The collection of poems explores themes of war, politics, and the human condition through a series of sonnets and other forms. It is written from the perspective of Timoleon, a Greek general who led a successful campaign in Sicily against the tyrant Hieronymus. The poems examine the complexities of power, morality, and the consequences of violence. They also touch on the poet's own sense of disillusionment with the world around him. Throughout the collection, Melville employs a range of literary devices to convey his ideas, including metaphor, allusion, and irony. The result is a nuanced and thought-provoking exploration of some of the most pressing issues of the time.
By Herman Melville · First published 1847 · Genre: Poetry, Classical, Romantic · 89 words
First lines
Aloof they crown the foreland lone, / From aloft they loftier rise- / Fair columns, in the aureole rolled / From sunned Greek seas and skies.
They wax, sublimed to fancy's view, / A god-like group against the blue.
Over much like gods! Serene they saw / The wolf-waves board the deck, / And headlong hull of Falconer, / And many a deadlier wreck.
What this Textopian page supports
Off Cape Colonna (Poems from Timoleon) is listed on Textopian as a poem by Herman Melville, dated 1847 CE.
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- Work type: Poem
- Author: Herman Melville
- Date: 1847 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Classical, Romantic, Nautical
- Length: 89 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
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- Work identity for Off Cape Colonna (Poems from Timoleon) by Herman Melville
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is composed in verse, utilizing poetic devices such as meter, rhyme, and imagery.
- Classical — The poem references Greek mythology and classical themes, evident in its allusions and style.
- Romantic — The poem exhibits Romantic characteristics, such as the emphasis on nature, emotion, and the sublime.
- Nautical — The poem includes maritime imagery and themes, referencing ships and the sea.
Tags
Ancient Greece · Historical Fiction · Poetry Collection · Classics · Literary Fiction · Greek History · War Poetry · Epic Poetry · Verse Novel · Historical Poem · Ancient World · Military History