19th Virtual Poetry Circle

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And now, for the seventeenth edition of the Virtual Poetry Circle:

OK, Here’s a poem up for reactions, interaction, and–dare I say it–analysis:

Remember, this is just for fun and is not meant to be stressful.

Keep in mind what Molly Peacock’s books suggested. Look at a line, a stanza, sentences, and images; describe what you like or don’t like; and offer an opinion. If you missed my review of her book, check it out here.

We’re returning to classic poetry this week, and today’s poem is from Samuel Taylor Coleridge:

Christabel [Beneath the lamp]

by Samuel Taylor Coleridge

Beneath the lamp the lady bowed,And slowly rolled her eyes around;Then drawing in her breath aloud,Like one that shuddered, she unboundThe cincture from beneath her breast:Her silken robe, and inner vest,Dropt to her feet, and full in view,Behold! her bosom, and half her side—A sight to dream of, not to tell!O shield her! shield sweet Christabel!

Yet Geraldine nor speaks nor stirs;Ah! what a stricken look was hers!Deep from within she seems half-wayTo lift some weight with sick assay,And eyes the maid and seeks delay;Then suddenly as one defiedCollects herself in scorn and pride,And lay down by the Maiden's side!—And in her arms the maid she took,   Ah wel-a-day!And with low voice and doleful look   These words did say:'In the touch of this bosom there worketh a spell,Which is lord of thy utterance, Christabel!

Let me know your thoughts, ideas, feelings, impressions. Let’s have a great discussion…pick a line, pick an image, pick a sentence.

I’ve you missed the other Virtual Poetry Circles, check them out here. It’s never too late to join the discussion.