Classic and Contemporary Poetry
THE SISTERS, by ALFRED TENNYSON Poet Analysis Poet's Biography First Line: We were two daughters of one race Last Line: O, the earl was fair to see! Alternate Author Name(s): Tennyson, Lord Alfred; Tennyson, 1st Baron; Tennyson Of Aldworth And Farringford, Baron Subject(s): Marriage; Sisters; Weddings; Husbands; Wives | ||||||||
WE were two daughters of one race; She was the fairest in the face. The wind is blowing in turret and tree. They were together, and she fell; Therefore revenge became me well. O, the earl was fair to see! She died; she went to burning flame; She mix'd her ancient blood with shame. The wind is howling in turret and tree. Whole weeks and months, and early and late, To win his love I lay in wait. O, the earl was fair to see! I made a feast; I bade him come; I won his love, I brought him home. The wind is roaring in turret and tree. And after supper, on a bed, Upon my lap he laid his head. O, the earl was fair to see! I kiss'd his eyelids into rest, His ruddy cheek upon my breast. The wind is raging in turret and tree. I hated him with the hate of hell, But I loved his beauty passing well. O, the earl was fair to see! I rose up in the silent night; I made my dagger sharp and bright. The wind is raving in turret and tree. As half-asleep his breath he drew, Three times I stabb'd him thro' and thro'. O, the earl was fair to see! I curl'd and comb'd his comely head, He look'd so grand when he was dead. The wind is blowing in turret and tree. I wrapt his body in the sheet, And laid him at his mother's feet. O, the earl was fair to see! | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...A BLESSING FOR A WEDDING by JANE HIRSHFIELD A SUITE FOR MARRIAGE by DAVID IGNATOW ADVICE TO HER SON ON MARRIAGE by MARY BARBER THE RABBI'S SON-IN-LAW by SABINE BARING-GOULD KISSING AGAIN by DORIANNE LAUX A TIME PAST by DENISE LEVERTOV A CHARACTER by ALFRED TENNYSON |
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