Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Thomas Bailey Aldrich's "Omar Khayyam (After Fitzgerald)" pays tribute to the famous Persian poet, mathematician, and philosopher Omar Khayyam, whose poems were translated into English by Edward Fitzgerald. This quatrain serves as an acknowledgment of Khayyam's enduring influence over centuries and celebrates his timeless wisdom. By invoking the names of prominent figures in Persian history, Aldrich connects the present to the past and offers a reflection on the lasting power of wisdom and poetic expression.

Themes

Timelessness of Wisdom: The central theme of the quatrain is the enduring nature of wisdom and the continued relevance of Khayyam's thoughts and poetic insights. Aldrich explores this theme through various elements:

Timeless Charm: "Yet he who charmed the wise at Naishapur / Seven centuries since still charms the wise to-day." These lines emphasize Khayyam's ageless wisdom that continues to captivate and resonate with readers, even centuries after his time.

Transience of Earthly Power: By mentioning Sultan, Slave, and Bahram Gur (a legendary Persian king), Aldrich contrasts the temporal and fleeting nature of power and status with the eternal charm of wisdom and poetry.

Universal Connection: The inclusion of historical figures serves to connect different eras and cultures, underlining the universality of human experience and the continual relevance of Khayyam's work.

Structure

The ABAB rhyme scheme of the quatrain allows for a concise but profound expression of the theme. The compact form helps in encapsulating a complex idea within just four lines, a testament to Aldrich's mastery over the form.

Style

Allusion and Tone: Aldrich's use of allusion and his reflective tone contribute to the effectiveness of the quatrain:

Historical Allusions: The references to Bahram Gur and Naishapur (an ancient city in Iran) tie the poem to a specific cultural and historical context. These allusions enrich the poem's meaning and add depth to its reflection on time and wisdom.

Reflective Tone: Aldrich's tone is contemplative and appreciative. He observes the lasting influence of Khayyam's wisdom without overstatement, allowing the facts to speak for themselves.

Economy of Expression: The poet's concise use of language illustrates how much can be conveyed in just a few lines. Every word is chosen with care, and the quatrain form itself reflects the economy and elegance of Khayyam's own verses.

Conclusion

"Omar Khayyam (After Fitzgerald)" by Thomas Bailey Aldrich is a powerful homage to the enduring wisdom of Omar Khayyam. By juxtaposing historical figures and highlighting Khayyam's timeless appeal, Aldrich comments on the transient nature of earthly power and the lasting impact of wisdom and poetry. This quatrain serves as both a tribute to Khayyam and a reflection on the human condition, emphasizing the universal connections that transcend time and place. Its conciseness, historical allusions, and reflective tone make it a poignant celebration of the enduring nature of human insight and creativity.

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