Classic Poetry Collection

"To Daffodils" by Robert Herrick

Fair Daffodils, we weep to see You haste away so soon; As yet the early-rising sun Has not attain'd his noon. Stay, stay, Until the hasting day Has run But to the even-song; And, having pray'd together, we Will go with you along. We have short time to stay, as you, We have as short a spring; As quick a growth to meet decay, As you, or anything. We die As your hours do, and dry Away, Like to the summer's rain; Or as the pearls of morning's dew, Ne'er to be found again.

Theme Analysis

"To Daffodils" by Robert Herrick expresses the shortness of life. It uses the daffodil's short duration to symbolize human mortality. It mourns how swiftly time passes, reminding us that beauty and youth fade rapidly. The poem also reminds us that life is brief and joy goes away so fast.

About Robert Herrick

Robert Herrick (1591-1674) was an English poet and Anglican clergyman. Best known for his book of poems "Hesperides," which includes the famous "To the Virgins, to Make Much of Time." His work reflects classical influences and often explores themes of transience, beauty, and the fleeting nature of life.

"To Daffodils" by William Wordsworth

I wandered lonely as a cloud That floats on high o'er vales and hills, When all at once I saw a crowd, A host of golden daffodils; Beside the lake, beneath the trees, Fluttering and dancing in the breeze. Continuous as the stars that shine And twinkle on the milky way Along the margin of a bay. Ten thousand saw I at a glance, Tossing their heads in sprightly dance.

Theme Analysis

The poem celebrates the beauty of nature. The sight of a vast field of golden daffodils by the lake fills the poet with bliss. The continuous, rhythmic dance of the flowers creates a vivid and uplifting image of nature's splendour.

About William Wordsworth

William Wordsworth (1770-1850) was a major English Romantic poet who helped launch the Romantic Age in English literature with the publication of "Lyrical Ballads" (1798), jointly published with Samuel Taylor Coleridge. Wordsworth's magnum opus is generally considered to be "The Prelude," a semi-autobiographical poem of his early years.

"The Lake Isle of Innisfree" by William Butler Yeats

I will arise and go now, and go to Innisfree, And a small cabin build there, of clay and wattles made; Nine bean-rows will I have there, a hive for the honey-bee, And live alone in the bee-loud glade. And I shall have some peace there, for peace comes dropping slow, Dropping from the veils of the morning to where the cricket sings; There midnight's all a glimmer, and noon a purple glow, And evening full of the linnet's wings. I will arise and go now, for always night and day I hear lake water lapping with low sounds by the shore; While I stand on the roadway, or on the pavements grey, I hear it in the deep heart's core.

Theme Analysis

The poem expresses a deep yearning for solitude and spiritual peace through connection with nature. The speaker seeks escape from urban chaos, idealizing a self-sufficient life marked by simplicity, silence, and inner calm. It suggests that true peace lies in natural calmness.

About William Butler Yeats

William Butler Yeats (1865-1939) was an Irish poet and one of the foremost figures of 20th-century literature. A pillar of both the Irish and British literary establishments, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1923. Yeats's work was greatly influenced by Irish mythology, mysticism, and his passion for Irish nationalism.

"I Died for Beauty" by Emily Dickinson

Cumilla Board 2019

I died for beauty, but was scarce Adjusted in the tomb, When one who died for truth was lain In an adjoining room. He questioned softly why I failed? "For beauty," I replied. "And I for truth – the two are one; We brethren are," he said. And so, as kinsmen met a-night, We talked between the rooms, Until the moss had reached our lips, And covered up our names.

Theme Analysis

The poem explores the kinship between truth and beauty, personified by two similar spirits who meet in death. Their quiet conversation reflects the poet's belief in the moral and philosophical unity of ideals.

About Emily Dickinson

Emily Dickinson (1830-1886) was an American poet known for her unconventional use of form and syntax. Living much of her life in reclusive isolation, she wrote nearly 1,800 poems, most of which were published posthumously. Her work explores themes of mortality, nature, and the human spirit with remarkable depth and originality.

"Under the Greenwood Tree" by William Shakespeare

Sylhet Board 2017

Under the greenwood tree Who loves to lie with me, And turn his merry note Unto the sweet bird's throat, Come hither, come hither, come hither: Here shall he see No enemy But winter and rough weather. Who doth ambition shun And loves to live i' the sun, Seeking the food he eats, And pleased with what he gets, Come hither, come hither, come hither: Here shall he see No enemy But winter and rough weather.

Theme Analysis

The poem glorifies pastoral life and celebrates freedom, honesty and contentment in nature. Contrasting corruption in court with rustic innocence, the poem presents the virtues of simplicity. It suggests that joy is found not in power or wealth but in the natural, ordinary life.

About William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare (1564-1616) was an English playwright and poet, widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language. His works include 39 plays, 154 sonnets, and two long narrative poems. Known for his profound understanding of human nature, Shakespeare's works explore themes of love, power, mortality, and the human condition with unmatched linguistic artistry.

"Blow, Blow, Thou Winter Wind" by William Shakespeare

HSC Exam 2018 (Ka Set), Barishal Board 2017

Blow, blow, thou winter wind, Thou art not so unkind As man's ingratitude; Thy tooth is not so keen, Because thou art not seen, Although thy breath be rude. Heigh-ho! sing, heigh-ho! unto the green holly: Most friendship is feigning, most loving mere folly: Then, heigh-ho, the holly! This life is most jolly. Freeze, freeze, thou bitter sky, That dost not bite so nigh As benefits forgot: Though thou the waters warp, Thy sting is not so sharp As friend remembered not. Heigh-ho! sing, heigh-ho! unto the green holly...

Theme Analysis

The poet compares the bitterness of winter with the cruelty of human ingratitude. Despite nature's harshness, it remains more tolerable than betrayal. The poem laments the falseness of friendship and highlights emotional wounds caused by near and dear ones.

"Leisure" by W. H. Davies

What is this life if, full of care, We have no time to stand and stare. No time to stand beneath the boughs And stare as long as sheep or cows. No time to see, when woods we pass, Where squirrels hide their nuts in grass. No time to see, in broad daylight, Streams full of stars, like skies at night. No time to turn at Beauty's glance, And watch her feet, how they can dance. No time to wait till her mouth can Enrich that smile her eyes began. A poor life this if, full of care, We have no time to stand and stare.

Theme Analysis

This poem blames modern life's relentless pace, lamenting how people no longer pause to appreciate nature's quiet beauty. It warns that a life devoid of reflection and wonder becomes barren. It stresses the need for mindfulness and poetic vision in everyday life.

About W.H. Davies

William Henry Davies (1871-1940) was a Welsh poet and writer who spent much of his life as a tramp or hobo in the United Kingdom and United States. His most famous work "Leisure" reflects his love of nature and simple living. Davies' poetry often celebrates the beauty of the natural world and criticizes the hurried pace of modern life.

"Dreams" by Langston Hughes

Barishal Board 2019, Jashore Board 2017

Hold fast to dreams For if dreams die Life is a broken-winged bird That cannot fly. Hold fast to dreams For when dreams go Life is a barren field Frozen with snow.

Theme Analysis

The poem highlights the essential role dreams play in human life. Without dreams, existence loses direction and vitality, becoming desolate and broken. The central idea is that dreams give purpose, hope, and energy to endure life's challenges.

About Langston Hughes

Langston Hughes (1902-1967) was an American poet, social activist, novelist, and playwright who became a leading figure in the Harlem Renaissance. His work often explored the lives of working-class African Americans and addressed issues of racial injustice. Hughes is best known for his insightful portrayals of black life in America from the twenties through the sixties.

"The School Boy" by William Blake

Dhaka Board 2017, Cumilla Board 2017

I love to rise in a summer morn, When the birds sing on every tree; The distant huntsman winds his horn, And the skylark sings with me: O what sweet company! But to go to school in a summer morn, O it drives all joy away! Under a cruel eye outworn, The little ones spend the day In sighing and dismay. Ah then at times I drooping sit, And spend many an anxious hour; Nor in my book can I take delight, Nor sit in learning's bower, Worn through with the dreary shower. How can a bird that is born for joy Sit in a cage and sing? How can a child, when fears annoy, But droop his tender wing, And forget his youthful spring!

Theme Analysis

The theme of the poem is the contrast between the joy of nature, represented by the summer morning with singing birds and the sounds of nature. The speaker expresses the negative impact of schooling on the natural joy and freedom of childhood.

About William Blake

William Blake (1757-1827) was an English poet, painter, and printmaker. Largely unrecognized during his lifetime, Blake is now considered a seminal figure in the history of poetry and visual arts of the Romantic Age. His works explore the complex interplay between imagination, spirituality, and human experience, often challenging conventional religious and social norms.

"September 1, 1939" by W.H. Auden

Rajshahi Board 2019

I sit in one of the dives On fifty-second street Uncertain and afraid As the clever hopes expire. Of a low dishonest decade: Waves of anger and fear Circulate over the bright And darkened lands of the earth. Obsessing our private lives; The unmentionable odour of death Offends the September night.

Theme Analysis

The poem captures the uncertainty and fear prevailing during a questionable decade. It describes the atmosphere of anger and fear spreading globally, affecting both bright and dark lands. The mention of the unmentionable odor of death conveys the unsettling reality of the time, particularly in the backdrop of September.

About W.H. Auden

Wystan Hugh Auden (1907-1973) was an Anglo-American poet regarded by many as one of the greatest writers of the 20th century. His work is noted for its stylistic and technical achievement, its engagement with politics, morals, love, and religion, and its variety in tone, form, and content. Auden's poetry frequently examines the individual's relationship with society and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world.

"Time, You Old Gypsy Man" by Ralph Hodgson

HSC Exam 2018 (Kha Set), Dinajpur Board 2017

Time, you old gypsy man, Will you not stay Put up your caravan just for one day ? All things I'll give you Will you be my guest, Bells for your jennet, Of silver the best. Goldsmiths shall beat you A great golden rings, Peacocks shall bow to you, Little boys sing, Oh, and sweet girls will Festoon you with may. Time, you old gypsy, Why hasten away? Last week in Babylon, last night in Rome, Morning, and in the crush Under Paul's dome; under Paul's dial You tighten your rein- Only a moment, And off once again; Off to some city Now blind in the womb, Off to another Ere that's in the tomb. Time, you old gypsy man, Will you not stay, Put up your caravan Just for one day ?

Theme Analysis

Time is portrayed as a restless wanderer who robs life of youth, love and joy. The poem emphasizes time's silent but unstoppable power over human existence. It underlines the inevitability of change, decay, and death.

About Ralph Hodgson

Ralph Hodgson (1871-1962) was an English poet known for his lyrical and mystical verse. Though he published relatively little, his work is noted for its technical perfection and profound themes. Hodgson often explored nature, time, and spiritual themes in his poetry, combining traditional forms with fresh imagery and emotional depth.

"Who is Disabled?" by Tony Wong

Sylhet Board 2019

If you fail to see the person but only the disability then, who is blind? If you cannot hear your brother's cry for justice, who is deaf? If you do not communicate with your sister but separate her from you, who is disabled? If your heart and your mind do not reach out to your neighbour, who has the mental handicap? If you do not stand up for the rights of all persons, who is the cripple? Your attitude towards persons with disabilities may be our biggest handicap, and yours too.

Theme Analysis

The theme of the poem is about challenging societal perceptions of disabilities and advocating for the rights and equality of individuals with disabilities. It emphasizes the impact of attitudes and discrimination on people with disabilities.

"Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening" by Robert Frost

Whose woods these are I think I know. His house is in the village though; He will not see me stopping here To watch his woods fill up with snow. My little horse must think it queer To stop without a farmhouse near Between the woods and frozen lake The darkest evening of the year. He gives his harness bells a shake To ask if there is some mistake. The only other sound's the sweep Of easy wind and downy flake. The woods are lovely, dark and deep, But I have promises to keep, And miles to go before I sleep, And miles to go before I sleep.

Theme Analysis

The poem balances momentary enchantment with the demands of duty. The quiet beauty of a snowy forest invites a pause, but the speaker must continue the journey of life. It reflects on the tension between desire for stillness and the responsibilities that we have to fulfill.

About Robert Frost

Robert Frost (1874-1963) was an American poet known for his realistic depictions of rural life and his command of American colloquial speech. Frost frequently wrote about settings from rural life in New England in the early 20th century, using them to examine complex social and philosophical themes. He is the only poet to receive four Pulitzer Prizes for Poetry.

"Crabbed Age and Youth" by William Shakespeare

Crabbed Age and Youth Cannot live together: Youth is full of pleasance, Age is full of care; Youth like summer morn, Age like winter weather; Youth like summer brave, Age like winter bare. Youth is full of sport, Age's breath is short; Youth is nimble, Age is lame; Youth is hot and bold, Age is weak and cold; Youth is wild, and Age is tame. Age, I do abhor thee; Youth, I do adore thee; O, my Love, my Love is young! Age, I do defy thee: O, sweet shepherd, hie thee: For methinks thou stay'st too long.

Theme Analysis

This poem presents a sharp contrast between young age and old age. It views youth as energetic and passionate, while old age is seen as rigid and joyless. The main idea is the incompatibility between the freedom of youth and the frailty of age.

"Deathbed" by Imam al-Ghazali

Say unto brethren when they see me dead, And weep for me, lamenting me in sadness: "Think ye I am this corpse ye are to bury? I swear by God, this dead one is not I. I in the Spirit am, and this my body My dwelling was, my garment for a time. I am a treasure: hidden I was beneath This talisman of dust, wherein I suffered. I am a pearl; a shell imprisoned me, But leaving it, all trials I have left. I am a bird, and this was once my cage; But I have flown, leaving it as a token. I praise God who hath set me free, and made For me a dwelling in the heavenly heights. Ere now I was a dead man in your midst, But I have come to life, and doffed my shroud."

Theme Analysis

The poem accepts death with serenity, seeing it not as an end but a return to the divine. It reflects spiritual clarity, detachment and faith. The poem presents death as a natural, peaceful transition rather than something to fear.

About Imam al-Ghazali

Abū Ḥāmid Muḥammad ibn Muḥammad al-Ghazālī (1058-1111), known as Imam al-Ghazali, was a Persian polymath who was one of the most prominent and influential philosophers, theologians, jurists, and mystics of Islam. His works were instrumental in reconciling orthodox Islamic theology with Sufi mysticism. His writings on spirituality and the nature of the soul continue to be widely studied in both the Islamic world and beyond.

"Hope is the thing with feathers" by Emily Dickinson

"Hope" is the thing with feathers - That perches in the soul - And sings the tune without the words - And never stops - at all - And sweetest - in the Gale - is heard - And sore must be the storm - That could abash the little Bird That kept so many warm - I've heard it in the chillest land - And on the strangest Sea - Yet - never - in Extremity, It asked a crumb - of me.

Theme Analysis

Hope is metaphorically depicted as a bird that resides in the soul, constantly singing even through the hardship of life. It asks for nothing in return and remains unshaken. The idea emphasizes hope's resilience, constancy, and silent strength in times of despair.

"Bird" by Pablo Neruda

It was passed from one bird to another, the whole gift of the day. The day went from flute to flute, went dressed in vegetation, in flights which opened a tunnel through the wind would pass to where birds were breaking open the dense blue air - and there, night came in. When I returned from so many journeys, I stayed suspended and green between sun and geography - I saw how wings worked, how perfumes are transmitted by feathery telegraph, and from above I saw the path, the springs and the roof tiles, the fishermen at their trades, the trousers of the foam; I saw it all from my green sky. I had no more alphabet than the swallows in their courses, the tiny, shining water of the small bird on fire which dances out of the pollen.

Theme Analysis

The bird symbolizes mystery, freedom, and grace beyond human understanding. Through its unpredictable movement and natural elegance, the poem marvels at nature's spontaneity. The theme celebrates the bird as a symbol of liberation, natural beauty, and the untamed spirit.

About Pablo Neruda

Pablo Neruda (1904-1973) was a Chilean poet-diplomat and politician who won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1971. Neruda became known as a poet when he was 13 years old, and wrote in a variety of styles including surrealist poems, historical epics, overtly political manifestos, and love poems. His work is characterized by its passionate, lyrical quality and its celebration of nature and ordinary things.

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Dive deeper into these poems and poets with these authentic online resources:

Poetry Foundation

Comprehensive resource for poems, poet biographies, and analysis.

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British Library

Original manuscripts and historical context for Romantic poetry.

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Academy of American Poets

Educational materials and modern interpretations of classic poems.

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