Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Paradise and the Peri" is one of the four narrative poems contained within "Lalla Rookh," a work by Irish poet Thomas Moore published in 1817. The overarching story of "Lalla Rookh" involves an Indian princess, Lalla Rookh, traveling to meet her betrothed, the King of Bukhara. On the journey, a poet named Feramorz entertains her with four separate tales, one of which is "Paradise and the Peri."

Provenance: "Paradise and the Peri" is part of the Orientalist tradition popular in European literature during the 18th and 19th centuries. It reflects a fascination with the perceived exoticism of the East, and the cultural context it was created in was largely characterized by a colonial gaze towards the East.

Theme Analysis: The main theme of "Paradise and the Peri" is redemption and the power of love and sacrifice. The protagonist of the tale is a peri, a type of supernatural being in Persian mythology that is neither wholly good nor wholly evil. Barred from Paradise, the peri is told that to regain entry, she must present the gift that is dearest to Heaven.

Over the course of the poem, the peri presents three gifts: the last drop of blood from a hero who died for his country, the last breath of a woman who died for love, and the tears of a repentant sinner. The first two gifts are rejected, but the third is accepted, highlighting the theme of repentance and redemption, and indicating that Heaven values a repentant sinner over heroic or romantic sacrifice.

Poetic Devices: Moore uses various poetic devices in "Paradise and the Peri". He employs vivid imagery and descriptive language to portray the characters and settings, immersing readers in the exotic landscapes and dramatic scenarios. The use of personification helps to express the peri's emotions and thoughts, while the symbolic significance of the three gifts adds depth to the narrative.

Similes and metaphors are used extensively to enhance the visual appeal of the narrative and intensify its emotional impact. For example, Moore compares the peri's joy at finally being allowed into Paradise to a rose 'blushing to the skies'. He also uses alliteration and assonance to create a rhythm that enhances the lyrical quality of the narrative and contributes to its dreamlike atmosphere.

"Paradise and the Peri" also contains moral and religious undertones, presenting a message about the value of redemption and repentance that aligns with Christian teachings, despite its Oriental setting and references to Eastern mythology. This is a reflection of Moore's own background and the broader context of his work, revealing the cultural hybridity that characterizes much of 19th-century Orientalist literature.

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