Poems

"Poems" by Robert Southey is a compilation of expressive poems from the late 1700s. This collection explores several ideas, such as affection, grief, freedom, and fairness in society, revealing Southey's feelings as he moves through different parts of his lifetime and understandings of his surroundings. The collection starts with a thoughtful mood, introducing the start of the poet's artistic path and goals. Southey shares a sentimental respect for the pureness and real emotions found in lyrics, while admitting his difficulties in following the rules, especially with odes. The first lyric is a sonnet that thinks about Southey's Pilgrim-like journey through life, shown by both sadness and the beauty found in creating literary pieces. He gives a bouquet made from the "wild and simple flowers of Poesy" as a modest present to someone he cares about, creating a personal bond that emphasizes feelings of affection and longing in his creation.