Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"A Lady Prayeth the Return of Her Lover Abiding on the Seas" is a poem written by John Heywood, an English playwright and poet who lived from 1497 to 1580. Heywood was known for his witty and satirical plays, as well as his poetry.

Context: 

The poem was written during the Tudor era, a period of great cultural and literary development in England. During this time, courtly love poetry was a popular form of expression, and many poets, including Sir Thomas Wyatt and Henry Howard, Earl of Surrey, wrote extensively on the subject. The poem reflects the conventions of Tudor poetry, in which the poet expresses her longing and prayers for the return of her lover.

Content: 

The poem is a prayer to God for the safe return of the poet's lover, who is at sea. The poem consists of 14 lines of rhymed couplets. In the poem, the poet describes her longing and prayers for the safe return of her lover, and asks God to protect him from the dangers of the sea.

Form: The poem follows a traditional lyric form, consisting of rhymed couplets. The meter is primarily iambic pentameter, with occasional variations to create rhythmic interest. The poem has a regular and rhythmic structure that reflects the formal nature of the lyric form.

Poetic Elements: 

The poem uses various poetic devices to convey the poet's longing and prayers for the safe return of her lover. The use of metaphor and imagery, such as the comparison of the sea to a monster, adds depth and richness to the poem. The use of rhetorical devices, such as repetition and parallelism, enhances the poem's emotional impact and creates a sense of urgency in the poet's plea.

Summary:

 "A Lady Prayeth the Return of Her Lover Abiding on the Seas" is a beautifully crafted poem that reflects the conventions of Tudor poetry. The poem's use of metaphor and imagery adds depth and richness to the poem, while its traditional lyric form reflects the formal nature of the genre. The poem's emotional impact is heightened by its use of rhetorical devices, and the theme of love and longing remains relevant today. Overall, "A Lady Prayeth the Return of Her Lover Abiding on the Seas" is a fine example of Tudor poetry and a testament to John Heywood's skill as a poet.

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