Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"An Ode Upon a Question Whether Love Should Continue Forever" is a poem by Edward Herbert, also known as Lord Herbert of Cherbury. The poem was written in the early 17th century and explores the theme of love and its eternal nature.

The poem is structured as an ode, consisting of several stanzas of varying lengths. It opens with a statement of the central question: whether love should continue forever. The speaker then proceeds to reflect on this question and explore the different aspects of love that make it both desirable and problematic.

The rhyme scheme of the poem is primarily ABAB, with occasional variations. This creates a sense of musicality and coherence, and helps to emphasize the ideas and themes that are being explored.

Throughout the poem, Herbert expresses his belief in the power and beauty of love, but also acknowledges its complexities and challenges. He explores the tension between the desire for eternal love and the fear of its potential to cause pain and suffering. The poem concludes with a resolution to embrace love and its impermanence, rather than striving for an unattainable ideal of eternal love.

In conclusion, "An Ode Upon a Question Whether Love Should Continue Forever" is a rich and complex exploration of the nature of love and its eternal qualities. Through its use of poetic language and structure, the poem conveys the beauty and complexity of love, while also acknowledging its challenges and limitations.