Love Song by Thomas Nelson Page
The work explores the nature of love, contrasting its essence with age, war, and societal status. It emphasizes that love is inherently youthful and vibrant, not bound by the wisdom of age or the accolades of war. The poem suggests that love thrives in simplicity and innocence, represented by natural elements like violets and meadows, rather than in the grandeur of stars and towns. The speaker reflects on the playful and capricious nature of love, highlighting its ability to bring joy and sorrow in equal measure. Love is depicted as a tyrant, capable of inflicting pain with a mere glance, yet also possessing the power to heal with a kiss. This duality illustrates love's unpredictable and often tumultuous character. The poem further delves into the elusive quality of love, suggesting that it can be found in the smallest details, such as a dimple or a glance, and that no physical barriers can shield one from its influence. The imagery evokes a sense of inevitability, indicating that love will find its target regardless of defenses. Overall, the work presents a nuanced view of love, celebrating its beauty and complexity while acknowledging its potential for heartache. It captures the essence of love as a fundamental human experience, transcending age, status, and circumstance.
By Thomas Nelson Page · First published 1908 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Lyric · 238 words
First lines
Love 's, for Youth, and not for Age, E'en though Age should wear a crown; For the Poet, not the Sage; Not the Monarch, but the Clown.
Love 's for Peace, and not for War, E'en though War bring all renown; For the Violet, not the Star; For the Meadow, not the Town.
Love 's for lads and Love 's for maids, Courts a smile and flees a frown; Love 's for Love, and saucy jades Love Love most when Love has flown.
Love a cruel tyrant is: Slays his victims with a glance, Straight recovers with a kiss, But to slay again, perchance.
What this Textopian page supports
Love Song is listed on Textopian as a poem by Thomas Nelson Page, dated 1908 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Thomas Nelson Page
- Date: 1908 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romance, Lyric, Philosophical, Narrative
- Length: 238 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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- Work identity for Love Song by Thomas Nelson Page
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- Loves House by Frederic Manning
- Song Was Gone From Me by Gilbert Parker
- The Nest by Gilbert Parker
- Parting by Gilbert Frankau
- The Harbour Light by Thomas Nelson Page
- Love Is Enough by Gilbert Parker
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs poetic devices, focusing on themes of love.
- Romance — The central theme revolves around love and relationships, typical of the romance genre.
- Lyric — The expression of personal emotions and thoughts about love aligns with the characteristics of lyric poetry.
- Philosophical — The exploration of love's nature and its impact on human experience reflects philosophical themes.
Tags
romance · love · Southern literature · historical fiction · family · relationships · heartbreak · nostalgia · cultural heritage · personal growth · conflict · emotional depth