A Cavalier's Toast by Madison Cawein
The poem celebrates the virtue of loyalty, contrasting it with other noble ideals such as friendship and love. The speaker acknowledges that while many toast to these common themes, their own dedication lies with loyalty, which is portrayed as a more profound and selfless commitment. In the first section, the speaker highlights the bravery associated with loyalty, likening it to a knight who risks everything for a cause or another person. This loyalty is depicted as an act of courage, where one is willing to face danger or sacrifice for the sake of another's freedom or honor. The speaker's toast emphasizes the nobility of such actions, suggesting that loyalty is a higher calling than mere friendship or romantic love. The second section reinforces the idea of loyalty as a transparent and honorable trait. The loyal individual does not hide behind masks or weapons; their intentions are clear and their actions are driven by a sense of duty rather than personal gain. The speaker asserts that true loyalty does not seek rewards or recognition, but rather acts for the sake of the bond it represents. This unwavering commitment is celebrated as a virtue that deserves recognition and admiration. Overall, the work encapsulates the essence of loyalty as a noble and selfless quality, elevating it above other virtues and underscoring its importance in human relationships. The speaker's toast serves as a tribute to those who embody this ideal, portraying loyalty as a fundamental aspect of honor and integrity.
By Madison Cawein · First published 1900 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Lyric · 129 words
First lines
I. Some drink to Friendship, some to Love, -- Through whom the world is fair, perdie! -- But I to one these others prove, Who leaps 'mid lions for a glove, Or dies to set another free -- I drink to Loyalty.
II. No dagger his, no cloak and mask, Free-faced he stands so all may see; Let Friendship set him any task, Or Love -- reward he does not ask, The deed is done whate'er it be -- So here's to Loyalty.
What this Textopian page supports
A Cavalier's Toast is listed on Textopian as a poem by Madison Cawein, dated 1900 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Madison Cawein
- Date: 1900 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romanticism, Lyric, Philosophical, Narrative
- Length: 129 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse and employs poetic devices, focusing on themes of loyalty, friendship, and love.
- Romanticism — The themes of love and loyalty reflect the ideals of Romanticism, emphasizing emotion and individualism.
- Lyric — The personal expression of feelings and thoughts aligns with the characteristics of lyric poetry.
- Philosophical — The exploration of loyalty and moral values suggests a philosophical undertone.
Tags
Poetry · Romance · Love · War · Cavalry · Toasting · Allegory · Symbolism · Imagery · Figurative Language · Metaphor · Simile