Her Vivien Eyes by Madison Cawein
The poem explores the enchanting yet perilous nature of a woman's eyes, likening them to celestial bodies and sources of water that can ensnare the unwary. The speaker warns against the allure of these eyes, suggesting that they possess a dangerous power capable of leading one to ruin. The imagery evokes ancient myths, referencing figures like Hylas and Merlin, who fell victim to similar enchantments. The repeated admonitions to "beware" and "take heed" emphasize the theme of temptation and the potential consequences of succumbing to it. The eyes symbolize both beauty and danger, creating a tension between desire and caution. The work ultimately serves as a cautionary tale about the seductive qualities of love and the risks involved in pursuing it.
By Madison Cawein · First published 1904 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Fantasy · 251 words
First lines
Her Vivien eyes, -- beware! beware! -- Though they be stars, a deadly snare They set beneath her night of hair. Regard them not! lest, drawing near -- As sages once in old Chaldee -- Thou shouldst become a worshiper, And they thy evil destiny.
Her Vivien eyes, -- away! away! -- Though they be springs, remorseless they Gleam underneath her brow's bright day. Turn, turn aside, whate'er the cost! Lest in their deeps thou lures behold, Through which thy captive soul were lost, As was young Hylas once of old.
What this Textopian page supports
Her Vivien Eyes is listed on Textopian as a poem by Madison Cawein, dated 1904 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: 1904 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romanticism, Fantasy, Gothic, Symbolism
- Length: 251 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse, employing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetic forms.
- Romanticism — Themes of beauty, danger, and the supernatural reflect the ideals of Romantic literature.
- Fantasy — The references to sorcery and mythical figures indicate elements of fantasy.
- Gothic — The ominous tone and themes of entrapment and curses align with Gothic literature.
Tags
Poetry · Romance · Nature · Imagery · Symbolism · Metaphor · Personification · Alliteration · Enjambment · Free Verse · Stream-of-Consciousness · Sensuality