The Highwayman is a collection of poems written by Alfred Noyes, a renowned English poet and author. First published in 1906, this collection has captivated readers with its unique blend of romance, adventure, and tragedy. Noyes’ words have the power to transport readers to a world of daring highwaymen, fearless lovers, and haunting moonlit nights. In this article, we will delve into the captivating world of “Poems The Highwayman” and explore the timeless beauty of Noyes’ works.
Alfred Noyes’ “Poems The Highwayman” has stood the test of time and continues to enthrall readers of all ages. The collection’s titular poem, “The Highwayman,” tells the tale of a daring and romantic highwayman who steals from the rich to provide for his lover, Bess, the landlord’s daughter. The poem is filled with vivid descriptions, atmospheric imagery, and heart-wrenching emotions that transport readers to the dangerous and passionate world of the highwayman.
Noyes’ masterful use of language and rhythm adds depth and intensity to his works. The poems in “Poems The Highwayman” are known for their lyrical quality, making them a joy to read aloud. The haunting refrain of “Bess, the landlord’s daughter” echoes throughout the collection, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.
Unique and Beautiful Poems The Highwayman
“And the highwayman came riding—
Riding—riding—
The highwayman came riding, up to the old inn-door.”
“He’d a French cocked-hat on his forehead, a bunch of lace at his chin,
A coat of claret velvet, and breeches of brown doe-skin.”
“He’d a French blade in his flat lace, and a lock of hair that curled,
And he kissed its waves in the moonlight, (O, sweet black waves in the moonlight!),
Then he tugged at his rein in the moonlight, and galloped away to the West.”
“The wind was a torrent of darkness among the gusty trees,
The moon was a ghostly galleon tossed upon cloudy seas.”
“And the highwayman came riding—
Riding—riding—
The highwayman came riding, up to the old inn-door.”
“He rose upright in the stirrups; he scarce could reach her hand,
But she loosened her hair i’ the casement! His face burnt like a brand
As the black cascade of perfume came tumbling over his breast.”
“And dark in the dark old inn-yard a stable-wicket creaked
Where Tim the ostler listened; his face was white and peaked;
His eyes were hollows of madness, his hair like mouldy hay.”
“A tap at the pane, the quick sharp scratch
And blue spurt of a lighted match.”
“The landlord’s black-eyed daughter,
Bess, the landlord’s daughter,
Plaiting a dark red love-knot into her long black hair.”
“One kiss, my bonny sweetheart, I’m after a prize to-night,
But I shall be back with the yellow gold before the morning light;
Yet, if they press me sharply, and harry me through the day,
Then look for me by moonlight,
Watch for me by moonlight,
I’ll come to thee by moonlight, though hell should bar the way.”
The poems in “Poems The Highwayman” are a testament to Alfred Noyes’ incredible talent and ability to create a world that is both enchanting and haunting. Whether you are a lover of poetry or simply enjoy a captivating story, this collection will leave an indelible mark in your heart.
