Poetry Hearth

'She Walks In Beauty' is a poem about passion at first sight. The theme of this poem is, ofcourse, beauty. But more specifically, it presents that beauty as a kind of harmony that is as perfect as it is rare. This particular woman’s beauty is practically unparalleled because of the exquisite harmony and visual balance of her looks. Beauty, the poem thus suggests, is perfection achieved through harmony. And as the poem progresses, it makes clear that this harmony is delicate and fragile. Lord Byron, the poet, was famously described as ‘mad, bad, and dangerous to know'. He was infamous for his many lovers, affairs and adventures. He was born in England and had a troubled youth due to his parents, eventually he died at the young age of 36 while leading campaigns during the 'Greek War of Independence'. Still, few will argue that Lord Byron didn't lead a full live filled with beauty and passion. Even fewer will question his skill as a poet. To this day he is revered in Greece as a folk hero. PoemShe walks in beauty, like the nightOf cloudless climes and starry skies;And all that’s best of dark and brightMeet in her aspect and her eyes;Thus mellowed to that tender lightWhich heaven to gaudy day denies.One shade the more, one ray the less,Had half impaired the nameless graceWhich waves in every raven tress,Or softly lightens o’er her face;Where thoughts serenely sweet express,How pure, how dear their dwelling-place.And on that cheek, and o’er that brow,So soft, so calm, yet eloquent,The smiles that win, the tints that glow,But tell of days in goodness spent,A mind at peace with all below,A heart whose love is innocent.Music: Price of Freedom by Zakhar Valaha