Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

William Browne (1590-1645) was an English poet and playwright, who was associated with the group of poets known as the "Sons of Ben" (referring to Ben Jonson). He is known for his pastoral poetry and his works often celebrate rural life and nature. "The Inner Temple Masque" was first performed in 1615, as part of the Christmas festivities at the Inner Temple, an institution of lawyers in London.

The masque is set in Arcadia, a mythical utopian landscape, and tells the story of a group of shepherds and nymphs who gather to celebrate the arrival of spring. The first shepherd invites the others to steer their "winged pines" towards the celebration, and the scene is set for a series of songs, dances, and allegorical tableaux.

The masque features a range of characters, including the shepherds and nymphs, the goddess Flora, and a chorus of "four and twenty swains." Throughout the performance, the themes of love, nature, and the passage of time are explored, with the masque ultimately offering a vision of harmony and renewal.

The poem's opening line, "Steer hither, steer, your winged pines," has become one of Browne's most famous and enduring lines. It sets the tone for the masque's celebration of the natural world and its invitation to the audience to participate in the festivities.

The final lines of the masque, "He stay'd not longer here, but ran to be more idly spent," are often interpreted as a commentary on the transience of life and the fleeting nature of pleasure. Overall, "The Inner Temple Masque" remains a significant work in the tradition of pastoral poetry and a testament to Browne's skill as a writer and dramatist

The poem makes use of various poetic devices, including:

• Imagery: The poem is rich in vivid imagery, with descriptions of winged pines, nymphs, and the court of Diana.

• Allusion: The poem alludes to classical mythology and literature, such as the goddess Diana and the story of Icarus.

• Personification: The poem personifies various natural elements, such as the winds and the seasons.

• Rhyme: The poem is written in rhymed couplets, with a consistent rhyme scheme of AA BB CC, etc.

• Metaphor: The poem uses metaphor to convey the idea of the cyclical nature of life and the seasons, comparing it to a circle that is continually turning.

Overall, "The Inner Temple Masque" is a beautifully crafted piece of poetry that celebrates nature, the changing seasons, and the idea of renewal and rebirth.

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