Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Robert Southey (1774-1843) was a prolific English poet, best known for his works that reflected his strong moral and political convictions. He was appointed Poet Laureate in 1813, and was also a prolific essayist and historian. This poem, "Ballad of Young Man That Would Read Unlawful Books & How He Was Punished," was published in his 1797 collection of ballads and songs, "Poems: containing The Retrospect, Odes, Elegies, Ballads, &c."

Content:

The poem tells the story of a young man who becomes obsessed with reading forbidden books, despite the warnings of his family and friends. He sneaks away from his work to read these books, and is eventually caught by his employer. The young man is fired from his job, and becomes increasingly isolated and depressed. He eventually becomes gravely ill, and on his deathbed, he confesses his sins and repents.

Form:

The poem is written in ballad form, with a simple ABAB rhyme scheme and a regular meter. This form was common in traditional English ballads, and Southey's use of it contributes to the poem's sense of timelessness and universality.

Poetic Elements:

The poem makes use of several poetic techniques and devices, including repetition, alliteration, and metaphor. The repeated refrain of "woe to the youth" emphasizes the tragic consequences of the young man's actions, while the use of alliteration in phrases such as "purchased page" and "unlawful lore" adds to the poem's musicality. The metaphor of the "worm that dieth not" reinforces the idea of the young man's guilt and punishment.

Summary:

Southey's "Ballad of Young Man That Would Read Unlawful Books & How He Was Punished" is a well-crafted poem that effectively conveys its moral message. The use of ballad form and poetic techniques add to the poem's emotional impact, and the story of the young man's downfall and redemption is both compelling and thought-provoking. Overall, this poem is a strong example of Southey's talent for writing moralistic ballads that resonate with readers even today.

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