Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

John Denham, a prominent English poet and playwright in the 17th century, wrote "SOMNUS" in 1632. The poem is an ode to the Roman god of sleep, Somnus.

Context:

The 17th century was a time of great social and political change in England, with the English Civil War and the Restoration of the monarchy. The literary scene was dominated by the metaphysical poets and the Cavalier poets. Denham was a member of the Royalist party and was exiled to France during the Civil War. The poem reflects the influence of the classical tradition on English poetry.

Content:

The poem begins by addressing Somnus, the god of sleep, and praising his power to soothe troubled minds and bodies. Denham describes Somnus as a gentle and peaceful deity who brings rest to the weary. He also uses imagery to describe the effects of sleep, including the image of "tired Nature's sweet restorer" and "Nature's soft nurse."

Form:

The poem consists of 27 lines of iambic pentameter, with a rhyme scheme of ABABCDCDEFEFGGHHIIJKLMM. It is written in a formal, elevated style, with classical allusions and a focus on the theme of sleep and rest. The poem's structure is carefully crafted to build to a climax, with the final lines expressing Denham's gratitude to Somnus for bringing rest and peace to his troubled soul.

Poetic Elements:

The poem makes use of classical allusions to the Roman god Somnus, as well as references to classical literature, including the works of Ovid and Virgil. The poem uses metaphor and symbolism to convey the idea of sleep as a restorative force for both the body and the mind, with references to "Nature's soft nurse" and "tired Nature's sweet restorer." The poem also uses imagery to describe the effects of sleep, including the image of "balmy slumber" and "the silken chain of sleep."

Summary:

The poem is an ode to the Roman god of sleep, Somnus, and celebrates the power of sleep to soothe troubled minds and bodies. It is notable for its use of classical allusions and its focus on the theme of sleep and rest. The poem is a reflection of the influence of the classical tradition on English poetry. Overall, the poem is a well-crafted ode that pays tribute to the restorative power of sleep.

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