Imitated from Catullus, to Ellen
The poem is a translation of Catullus' work, with the speaker expressing his love for Ellen and comparing her to a cat. The tone is one of passion and intensity, with the speaker declaring that he would rather die than live without Ellen. The poem explores themes of love, desire, and mortality.
By Lord Byron · First published 1817 · Genre: Romantic Poetry, Lyric Poetry, Classical Imitation · 128 words
First lines
Oh! might I kiss those eyes of fire, A million scarce would quench desire: Still would I steep my lips in bliss, And dwell an age on every kiss; Nor then my soul should sated be, Still would I kiss and cling to thee: Nought should my kiss from thine dissever; Still would we kiss, and kiss for ever, E'en though the numbers did exceed The yellow harvest's countless seed.
To part would be a vain endeavor: Could I desist? -ah! never-never!
What this Textopian page supports
Imitated from Catullus, to Ellen is listed on Textopian as a poem by Lord Byron, dated 1817 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Lord Byron
- Date: 1817 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Romantic Poetry, Lyric Poetry, Classical Imitation
- Length: 128 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Romantic Poetry — The poem expresses intense romantic desire and longing, characteristic of romantic poetry.
- Lyric Poetry — The poem is a personal expression of emotion and desire, typical of lyric poetry.
- Classical Imitation — The work is an imitation of Catullus, reflecting classical influences and style.
Tags
Elegy · Poetry · Romance · Love Poem · Classical Influence · Imitation · Translation · 18th Century Literature · English Poetry · Byronic Hero · Satire · Social Commentary