The Poem of Woman by Théophile Gautier
The poem explores the multifaceted nature of femininity and beauty through vivid imagery and rich symbolism. It begins with a dreamer captivated by a woman's physical form, which is depicted as a work of art, akin to marble sculptures. The woman embodies elegance and grace, adorned in luxurious fabrics that accentuate her beauty. As the poem progresses, the woman transitions through various artistic representations, from a classical figure reminiscent of ancient sculptures to a more contemporary portrayal of sensuality and allure. She is compared to mythological and artistic figures, emphasizing her timelessness and the power of her presence. The imagery shifts from the grandeur of the opera to intimate moments of self-reflection, where the woman engages with her own beauty in a mirror. The poem contrasts traditional ideals of modesty with a celebration of unabashed femininity, showcasing her curves and the purity of her form. Ultimately, the narrative takes a somber turn, reflecting on the ephemeral nature of beauty and life. The woman, once vibrant and full of life, is now depicted in death, surrounded by flowers that symbolize both beauty and sorrow. The poem concludes with a poignant meditation on loss, inviting the reader to contemplate the fleeting essence of beauty and the inevitable passage of time.
By Théophile Gautier · First published 1857 · Genre: Lyric Poetry, Romanticism, Symbolism · 725 words
First lines
MARBLE OF PAROS
Unto the dreamer once whose heart she had, / As she was showing forth her treasures rare, / Minded she was to read a poem fair, / The poem of her form with beauty glad.
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The Poem of Woman is listed on Textopian as a poem by Théophile Gautier, dated 1857 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Théophile Gautier
- Date: 1857 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Lyric Poetry, Romanticism, Symbolism, Aestheticism, Elegy
- Length: 725 words
- Structure: 1 section, 18 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Similar titles
- To A Rose Coloured Gown by Theophile Gautier
- A Study Of Hands by Theophile Gautier
- On Woman by W. B. Yeats
- The Picture Or The Lovers Resolution by Samuel Taylor Coleridge
- Odelet by Theophile Gautier
- The Wild Knight And Other Poems The Two Women by G. K. Chesterton
Genres
- Lyric Poetry — The poem expresses personal emotions and aesthetic appreciation of beauty, characteristic of lyric poetry.
- Romanticism — The themes of beauty, nature, and emotional depth align with Romantic ideals.
- Symbolism — The use of vivid imagery and metaphor reflects Symbolist tendencies in literature.
- Aestheticism — The focus on beauty and art for art's sake is a central theme in Aestheticism.
Tags
feminism · romanticism · poetry · gender · identity · beauty · nature · love · art · expression · sensuality · emotion