Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Faery Reaper" by Robert Williams Buchanan published in 1875 is a lyrical and fantastical poem that tells the story of a young maiden who becomes intertwined with the faeries and their harvest on the island of Eilanowen, a fictional island . It is where the faeries sow their golden grain and where the events of the poem take place. It is a magical and enchanting place where the faeries gather and interact with the mortal world. Although Eilanowen itself is not based on any specific real-world location, it represents a realm of fantasy and imagination within the context of the poem.The poem combines elements of folklore and romance to create a whimsical and enchanting narrative.

The poem begins by describing the laughter and nightly activities of the faeries as they sow their golden grain on Eilanowen. The grain grows silently and only by moonlight, unaffected by sunlight or rain. It is revealed that the grain must be reaped by a pure maiden, who must lead the harvest every night for seven nights. The better and purer the maiden's soul, the better and brighter the harvest will be.

The focus then shifts to the farmer's daughter who resides near Eilanowen. She frequently visits the island but can neither see nor hear the faeries. However, she engages in playful activities, such as swimming in the lake, while the faeries watch her with admiration. The faeries are captivated by her purity and wish to claim her as the Faery Reaper.

The narrative takes a personal turn as the narrator, who has loved the maiden for some time, notices changes in her behavior. She becomes pale and sorrowful, and it is revealed that she has been dreaming of being on Eilanowen and reaping the grain with the faeries. In her dreams, the faeries torment her and prevent her from uttering her prayers. Each morning, she wakes up exhausted and saddened by her dreams.

The narrator comforts and reassures her, believing that if she fulfills the faeries' wishes and becomes the Faery Reaper, they will bless their wedding and bring them happiness. The maiden agrees and willingly participates in the faeries' harvest for three nights. Eventually, their work is complete, and the faeries no longer require the help of mortals.

The poem concludes with the joyful wedding of the maiden and the narrator, with the faeries present to bless their union. The final stanza emphasizes the laughter, blessings, and luck that came after the maiden's participation in the faeries' harvest.

Overall, "Faery Reaper" combines elements of folklore, romance, and the supernatural to create a whimsical and imaginative tale. It explores themes of purity, fate, and the enchantment of the faery realm. The poem's lyrical language and vivid imagery contribute to its overall charm and evoke a sense of wonder and magic.

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