Lovely Davies
written in 1791
Lovely Davies - meaning Summary
Admiration Beyond Art's Power
The poem presents a speaker who feels unfit to capture the beauty of a woman named Davies in verse. He declares the usual poetic gifts insufficient, then offers plain images of her effect: she brightens every eye like the morning sun, causes lovers to gladly submit like slaves who cherish their chains, and commands admiration with a sovereign smile. Ultimately the speaker admits defeat, laying aside his lyre because the subject is too splendid for his powers and choosing silent admiration over inadequate praise.
Read Complete AnalysesO how shall I, unskilfu', try The Poet's occupation? The tunefu' powers, in happy hours, That whisper, inspiration, Even they maun dare an effort mair Than aught they ever gave us, Ere they rehearse, in equal verse, The charms o' lovely Davies. Each eye it cheers when she appears, Like Phebus in the morning, When past the shower, and every flower The garden is adorning: As the wretch looks o'er Siberia's shore, When winter-bound the wave is; Sae droops our heart, when we maun part Frae charming, lovely Davies. Her smile's a gift frae boon the lift, That maks us mair than princes; A sceptr'd hand, a king's command, Is in her darting glances: The man in arms 'gainst female charms, Even he her willing slave is; He hugs his chain, and owns the reign Of conquering lovely Davies. My Muse to dream of such a theme, Her feeble powers surrender; The eagle's gaze alone surveys The sun's meridian splendor: I wad in vain essay the strain, The deed too daring brave is; I'll drap the lyre, and, mute, admire The charms o' lovely Davies.
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