The iconic lyrics of “Drink to Me Only with Thine Eyes” have captivated music enthusiasts for centuries. Ben Jonson, an acclaimed playwright and poet, crafted these verses in the early 17th century. Set to music by several composers, including the celebrated English composer Sir John Stevens, these lyrics have become a beloved anthem for lovers and poets alike. Their enduring charm lies in their evocative imagery, expressing the longing for a love that transcends physical presence.
Drink to Me Only with Thine Eyes Lyrics Structure
This famous love poem by Ben Jonson follows a specific structure that enhances its lyrical flow and emotional impact:
Stanza Structure
- Stanza 1: 4 lines, ABAB rhyme scheme
- Stanza 2: 4 lines, CDCD rhyme scheme
- Stanza 3: 4 lines, EFEF rhyme scheme
- Stanza 4: 4 lines, GG rhyme scheme
Rhyme Scheme
- ABAB: First and third lines rhyme, second and fourth lines rhyme
- CDCD: First and third lines rhyme, second and fourth lines rhyme
- EFEF: First and third lines rhyme, second and fourth lines rhyme
- GG: Both lines rhyme
Line Structure
- Each line consists of iambic pentameter, meaning 10 syllables in each line, alternating unstressed and stressed syllables (da-DUM, da-DUM, da-DUM, da-DUM, da-DUM).
Table of Rhyme Scheme and Line Structure
| Stanza | Rhyme Scheme | Line Structure |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | ABAB | Iambic Pentameter |
| 2 | CDCD | Iambic Pentameter |
| 3 | EFEF | Iambic Pentameter |
| 4 | GG | Iambic Pentameter |
Additional Features
- Repetition: The first line, “Drink to me only with thine eyes,” is repeated at the beginning of each stanza, creating a refrain-like effect.
- Imagery: The poem uses vivid imagery (e.g., “the broken crystal of thy face”) to evoke the beauty and perfection of the beloved.
- Metaphor: The poem compares the act of drinking wine to the act of drinking love.
Question 1:
What is the significance of the phrase “drink to me only with thine eyes” and how does it relate to the overall meaning of the poem?
Answer:
The phrase “drink to me only with thine eyes” represents the speaker’s desire for a platonic and unattainable love. The speaker acknowledges that their beloved will never reciprocate their feelings and thus asks them to “quench” their thirst for love by gazing at them from afar. This refrain emphasizes the speaker’s longing for a connection that is both bittersweet and unattainable.
Question 2:
How does the use of imagery and symbolism contribute to the meaning of the poem “Drink to Me Only with Thine Eyes”?
Answer:
The poem employs vivid imagery of drinking and a tavern setting to convey the speaker’s emotional state. The act of drinking symbolizes the speaker’s longing for love, while the tavern represents a place of revelry and escapism. The use of symbolism, such as the “cup” and “ruby” lips, further reinforces the speaker’s desire for a connection that is both sensual and unattainable.
Question 3:
What is the historical context of the poem “Drink to Me Only with Thine Eyes” and how does it influence the interpretation of the lyrics?
Answer:
The poem was written during the reign of King James I of England in the early 17th century. This period was characterized by social and political turmoil, which influenced the poem’s themes of unrequited love and longing. The courtly tradition of courtly love, which idealized unattainable love, also played a role in shaping the poem’s lyrics and sentiment.
Well, there you have it, folks! A closer look at “Drink to Me Only with Thine Eyes.” It’s a beautiful piece of poetry that has stood the test of time. I hope you enjoyed this little exploration. Thanks for sticking around. If you have any thoughts or questions, feel free to drop a comment below. I’d love to hear from you! And don’t forget to pop back in later for more literary adventures. Cheers!