O HYMEN! O hymenee!
Why do you tantalize me thus?
O why sting me for a swift moment only?
Why can you not continue? O why do you now cease?
Is it because, if you continued beyond the swift moment, you would
soon certainly kill me?
"O Hymen! O Hymenee!" by Walt Whitman is a celebratory and exuberant poem that explores the themes of love, marriage, and the joyous union of two individuals. Through its joyful language and rhythmic structure, the poem conveys a sense of optimism and happiness.
The poem begins with the speaker addressing Hymen, the ancient Greek god of marriage and weddings, with enthusiasm and praise. Hymen is called upon to bless the marriage of two individuals, and his presence is celebrated as a symbol of love and union.
Whitman uses vivid and sensory imagery to describe the scenes and sounds of the wedding celebration. The "festooned bridge" and the "dancing torches" evoke a sense of festivity and merriment.
The poem's tone is one of jubilation and exultation. Whitman's use of repetition, such as "O the happiness!" and "O the bridegroom's joy!" amplifies the sense of joy and celebration.
The poem celebrates the union of two individuals and the transformative power of love. It emphasizes the idea that love and marriage are causes for rejoicing and that they bring happiness and fulfillment to those who experience them.
"O Hymen! O Hymenee!" is a joyful and exuberant ode to love and marriage. It captures the sense of optimism and celebration that accompanies weddings and the union of two people in love. The poem's lively language and enthusiastic tone invite readers to share in the joy of the occasion and to celebrate the power of love to bring happiness and fulfillment.
