Court Musicians by Joyce Kilmer
The poem explores the theme of court musicians who are forced to play music that they do not enjoy, but are paid for their services. It highlights the tension between artistic expression and financial necessity. The speaker describes the musicians' situation with a sense of irony and frustration.
By Joyce Kilmer · First published 1902 · Genre: Lyric Poetry, Romanticism, Imagism · 156 words
First lines
As when in summer-scented days gone by The court-musicians, dressed in velvets gay And golden silks, would on their gitterns play And blend their voices with the strings' love-cry, So that the princess from her tower on high Might through the rose-framed window hear their lay, And make more splendid the resplendent day By leaning out, her choristers to spy;
So now, with weary voice and violin, Two court-musicians rend the dusty air. Their shrill notes pierce the elevated's din, And thrill a girl's heart with a pleasure rare. For her has sweeter music never been; They never saw a princess half so fair.
What this Textopian page supports
Court Musicians is listed on Textopian as a poem by Joyce Kilmer, dated 1902 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Joyce Kilmer
- Date: 1902 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Lyric Poetry, Romanticism, Imagism, Historical Poetry, Narrative Poetry
- Length: 156 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Lyric Poetry — The work is characterized by its musicality and emotional expression, typical of lyric poetry.
- Romanticism — Themes of beauty, nature, and emotional depth align with Romantic ideals.
- Imagism — The vivid imagery and focus on sensory experience reflect Imagist principles.
- Historical Poetry — The setting and references to court musicians suggest a historical context.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · Symbolism · Nature Imagery · Imagist Movement · Free Verse · Modern Poetry · Rural Life · Music · Courtly Love · Romanticism · Sensuality