The Heart of Ice by Oliver Herford
The poem explores themes of love, mischief, and the playful nature of Cupid. It begins with a direct address to Cupid, questioning his intentions and the purpose of his actions. The speaker suspects that Cupid is up to no good, hinting at a mischievous plot involving hearts and love. As the poem progresses, the speaker expresses skepticism about Cupid's innocence and motives, suggesting that he may have stolen a heart or is hiding something. The playful tone continues as the speaker demands that Cupid reveal his secrets, emphasizing a sense of urgency and curiosity. Cupid, in response, shyly admits to possessing an ice-pick, a metaphorical tool intended to "hew cold hearts." This revelation implies that the speaker is aware of someone with a heart that needs to be softened or won over. The ice-pick symbolizes the need to break through emotional barriers and reach someone who is emotionally distant. The speaker encourages Cupid to act quickly, expressing hope that he will succeed in his mission. The poem concludes with a blend of humor and earnestness, highlighting the complexities of love and the lengths one might go to in order to win someone's affection. The overall tone is light-hearted yet pointed, capturing the essence of romantic pursuits and the playful nature of love.
By Oliver Herford · First published 1910 · Genre: Poetry, Romantic, Humor · 264 words
First lines
Now whither are you flying And on what game intent, Cupid? There's no denying On mischief you are bent.
What is the use of trying To look so innocent?
What means your empty quiver? Did heart of some coquette Your golden arrows shiver? Or did you, boy, upset Your darts in Lethe's river, Or break them in a pet?
What is it you're concealing, My patience to annoy? A heart you have been stealing, Or some such foolish toy? Come, now -- no double-dealing! Out with it -- Cupid, boy!
What this Textopian page supports
The Heart of Ice is listed on Textopian as a short story by Oliver Herford, dated 1910 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Oliver Herford
- Date: 1910 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romantic, Humor, Fantasy, Satire
- Length: 264 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Romantic — The themes revolve around love and the playful nature of Cupid, typical of romantic poetry.
- Humor — The playful tone and witty dialogue suggest a humorous approach to the subject matter.
- Fantasy — The personification of Cupid and the magical elements indicate a fantasy genre.
Tags
Fantasy · Adventure · Romance · Mystery · Drama · Literary Fiction · Classic · Historical · Philosophical · Psychological · Symbolic · Allegorical