Melancholy by John Fletcher Summary

The poem “Melancholy” by John Fletcher explores the theme of melancholy and the beauty found in reflective and contemplative moments. The speaker bids farewell to frivolous and transient pleasures, emphasizing the brevity of such delights. According to the speaker, life lacks inherent sweetness if one is wise enough to perceive it. The true sweetness, as celebrated in the poem, lies in melancholy.

The speaker welcomes a contemplative posture with folded arms and fixed eyes, describing it as a sight that pierces and mortifies. The poem depicts the allure of melancholy through images of pathless groves, moonlight walks, and the sounds of a midnight bell and a parting groan. The speaker finds solace in these quiet and reflective moments, stretching bones in a still gloomy valley.

The concluding lines express a deep appreciation for melancholy, describing it as “dainty sweet” and asserting that nothing in life is as sweet as lovely melancholy. Overall, the poem celebrates the beauty and depth found in the quieter and more introspective aspects of life, emphasizing the fleeting nature of frivolous pleasures and the enduring sweetness of melancholy.

Key Points

Author

John Fletcher was a renowned English Jacobean playwright. He was known for his collaborative works with other playwrights, most notably Francis Beaumont.

Form

The poem is written in verse form with a varying rhyme scheme. It consists of two stanzas with a total of 19 lines.

Speaker

The speaker in the poem is an unnamed individual who is reflecting on the nature of melancholy and its impact on their life.

Setting

The setting of the poem is not explicitly stated, but the imagery suggests a quiet, introspective environment. The speaker mentions “fountain-heads and pathless groves”, “moonlight walks”, and a “still gloomy valley”, indicating a natural, serene setting.

Theme

The main theme of the poem is the exploration of melancholy. The speaker finds a unique kind of sweetness in sadness and solitude.

Plot

The poem doesn’t have a traditional plot, as it’s more of a reflection on the state of melancholy. The speaker describes their experiences and feelings associated with melancholy, using vivid imagery and metaphors.

Tone

The tone of the poem is contemplative and introspective. The speaker seems to be in a state of deep thought, reflecting on the nature of melancholy.

Style

Fletcher’s style in this poem is characterized by its rich imagery and thoughtful exploration of emotion. He uses metaphorical language to convey the speaker’s feelings and experiences.

Message

The message of the poem is that there can be a certain beauty and wisdom in recognizing and embracing moments of melancholy. It suggests that these moments of introspection can offer a unique perspective on life.

Word Meaning