The Fly
Little Fly William Blake (1757-1827) Overview Bloody flies, always sitting on our food and making irritating buzzing noises. Squashing or swatting one of these buggers is normally one of the happiest moments of our lives, making us feel like untapped ninja talent, but Blake spoils all this by getting philsophical about it. This poem is […]
I Grieve, And Dare Not Show My Discontent
I Grieve, And Dare Not Show My Discontent Sir John Suckling (1609-1642) Overview This poem is about someone having to hide their true emotions, as Queen Elizabeth hides her unhappiness at being unable to marry a potential suitor. However, can also be perceived to be more generally about someone in a role of great responsibility […]
The Ruined Maid
The Ruined Maid Thomas Hardy (1840-1920) Overview This poem is ahead of its time and presents quite an empowering message about the way women are judged. Two old acquaintances, who knew each other from earlier days on a farm, have a chance meeting in town. The first speaker is amazed by the changed that has […]