Over hill, over dale,
Thorough bush, thorough brier,
Over park, over pale,
Thorough flood, thorough fire!
I do wander everywhere,
Swifter than the moon’s sphere;
And I serve the Fairy Queen,
To dew her orbs upon the green;
The cowslips tall her pensioners be;
In their gold coats spots you see;
Those be rubies, fairy favours;
In those freckles live their savours;
I must go seek some dewdrops here,
And hang a pearl in every cowslip’s ear.
"A Fairy Song" by William Shakespeare is a whimsical and enchanting poem that captures the essence of the fairy world and its magical allure. Through its vivid imagery, rhythmic flow, and ethereal language, the poem transports readers to a realm of fantasy and wonder.
The poem opens with a vivid description of the fairy world, emphasizing its mysterious and magical nature. The phrase "Over hill, over dale" suggests a sense of movement and freedom, while "Thorough bush, thorough brier" adds a touch of wildness to the fairy's journey.
Shakespeare's use of sensory imagery, such as "Hound or spaniel" and "reddest curled" emphasizes the richness and diversity of the fairy realm. These images appeal to the reader's senses, creating a sensory experience of the enchanted world.
The refrain "And I serve the fairy queen" not only adds a musical quality to the poem but also underscores the role of the speaker as a servant or participant in the fairy world. This repetition creates a sense of enchantment and rhythm, inviting readers to become immersed in the magical atmosphere.
The poem's tone is light-hearted and joyful, capturing the playful spirit of the fairy world. The fairies' activities, such as "trip it as you go" and "light fantastic toe," suggest a sense of carefree celebration and movement.
"A Fairy Song" exemplifies Shakespeare's ability to create vivid imagery and evoke a sense of wonder through his poetic language. The poem transports readers to a world of fantasy and imagination, inviting them to experience the enchantment and joy of the fairy realm. Through its imagery, rhythm, and tone, the poem captures the magic and allure of a mythical realm where nature and fantasy blend seamlessly.
