"She walks on eggshells" - a Poetry Sister post

[kellyrfineman]

When we were deciding on our themes for this year, I tossed out a poem in the style of George Gordon, Lord Byron's "She walks in beauty", which begins "She walks in beauty, like the night". You can read the original here. It's a short poem - three stanzas of six lines each - and was allegedly written after Byron attended a party and met his cousin

Comments

Poetry Friday-She Walks on Eggshells

[ext_2697669]

Kelly,
I found the way you used Lord Bryon's poem to write a backstory poem was intriguing. It flows so well that is a feat in itself.

Re: Poetry Friday-She Walks on Eggshells

[kellyrfineman]

Thanks!

[ext_1565055]

My high school choir "sang" that poem & I still remember much of it, but no one told us the background. I suspect we teens simply thought it was a wonderful love poem. The "inside" and "outside" of this cousin is something to imagine of many, isn't it? I liked it a lot, Kelly.

[kellyrfineman]

Thanks - I never heard a song setting of the original poem, though I sang some Frost and Whitman.

She walks on eggshells

[ext_3711217]

Oh, my. First off, I'll bet you're right. A new widow in that time and age must have felt completely trapped within the confines of mourning attire and tradition. I love how much you give voice to this woman who never had a chance to speak for herself. And, this type of poetry from this time period....I really struggle with. I have a difficult time finding "beautiful" in so many words that fit a format. But, the way you fit the meter and rhyme scheme is well done and delicate....just like what I picture that widow to be. I really hope that someday she can stand in the sun again.

Re: She walks on eggshells

[kellyrfineman]

Thank you so much!

[ext_4179349]

I love how you questioned Byron's assumptions and brought us the widow's perspective. I've read this several times already--it's so rich and well crafted!

[kellyrfineman]

Thank you!

Yes!

[ext_3178165]

First, I LOVE the title.
But also and most importantly the voice you've given her. It's powerful and lovely....

Re: Yes!

[kellyrfineman]

Thanks, Liz!