Mist Harbor Library Lectures - 2023-07-02 - Comparative Study of Elanthian Poetry (log)

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The following was the twenty fourth lecture in the Mist Harbor Library lecture series, where Mirkk Timbertree-Bayvel was the guest speaker, which was given on 07/02/5123. Topics covered in this lecture series must be lore-based but are otherwise left to the discretion of the speaker. This lecture discusses aspects of Elanthian Poetry with recitation of several examples.

This log has been edited to remove excess noise and chatter. Some engagement and digression have remained to reflect the audience participation and subsequent discussion.

[Library, Meeting Hall - 29806] (u3223132)

A trio of wide stairs lead down from a wide archway into this brightly lit room. A small podium stands atop a small dais opposite the archway, and several cushioned benches have been arranged throughout the space, each offering an excellent line of sight. A number of elliptical windows line the walls of the hall, and a rich crimson-patterned carpet covers the entirety of the floor underfoot. You also see the sparking Dendum disk, the web-draped Missoni disk, a wide archway and a small table with some stuff on it.

Also here: Xiasa who is sitting, Nairena who is sitting, Kalyrra who is sitting, Haliyna who is sitting, Meril who is sitting, Horsewoman Meliyara who is sitting, Seneschal Dendum who is sitting, Missoni who is sitting, Lady Teaberry who is sitting, Squire Kothos who is sitting, Mirkk, Tabubu who is sitting, Lady Arenglae who is sitting, Rivienne who is sitting, Sirona who is sitting, Alisaire, Lady Akenna who is sitting, Dahcre Reader Ordim who is sitting, Ardasi who is sitting, Moshari who is sitting

You glance around the room.

You softly exclaim, "Well, what a lovely crowd!"

You walk behind a small podium.

You softly exclaim, "Please help yourselves to refreshments and find yourself a seat, if you haven't already done so!"

You graciously greet, "Good afternoon, everyone."

You excitedly begin, "As the Library's Loremaster, it gives me great pleasure to once again welcome you all to another in our lecture series."

You brightly explain, "As I'm sure you are all aware by now, the aim is to provide a platform for imparting knowledge and encouraging discussion."

You gently remind, "I ask that everyone be considerate to our speaker, as well as those who comment or ask questions."

You softly continue, "All opinions are welcome and indeed encouraged, as long as they are courteously expressed."

You smile.

You excitedly say, "I am especially delighted that our speaker agreed to be here today."

Mirkk appears to be trying hard not to grin.

You gaze fondly at Mirkk.

You warmly say, "So, without further ado, please give Mirkk a warm Library welcome."

[Applause]

Mirkk walks to stand behind a small podium.

Mirkk clears his throat.

Mirkk smiles.

Mirkk glances away.

Mirkk takes a deep breath.

Mirkk slowly empties his lungs.

Mirkk inclines his head.

Mirkk politely greets, "Good evening. Thank you all for coming to such a late lecture."

Mirkk politely adds, "Hopefully the lateness of the hour affords us all a splendid Mist Harbor sunset afterward."

Mirkk quickly adds, "Not that I intend to keep you here until sunset."

Mirkk politely remarks, "I was asked to provide this lecture by my darling wife in such a manner I couldn’t possibly say no."

Mirkk thoughtfully says, "Of course, upon agreeing, my thoughts swiftly became consumed with what topic I should consider, and of what I felt I had even the slightest inkling of authority on which to speak."

Mirkk amusedly says, "I shall spare everyone my tales of fishing and the intricacies of my wife's leaf or gown collections, and instead will be discussing the topic of poetry in Elanthia."

Mirkk notes, "I will add that there is so much poetry across Elanthia, I could not possibly include it all within the time allotted. I will be providing some full-length poems and some highlights from others, but this should not be seen as a comprehensive survey."

Mirkk politely remarks, "With that, let us begin."

Mirkk removes a set of vaalin half-framed reading spectacles from in his leather relics satchel.

Mirkk gently polishes his spectacles with a bit of cloth.

Mirkk puts on a set of vaalin half-framed reading spectacles.

Mirkk removes a sheet of silver-edged paper from in his ebon leather longcoat.

Mirkk gazes with interest at the silver-edged paper in his hand.

Mirkk clearly states, "Poetry is the art of expressing thoughts, emotions, and ideas through carefully chosen words and creative linguistic devices. It is a form of literary expression that often utilizes rhythm, imagery, and metaphor to evoke powerful imagery and evoke strong emotions. Poetry captures the beauty and complexity of experiences in a condensed and impactful manner."

Mirkk rhetorically asks, "So why is poetry important?"

Mirkk informs, "Poetry has existed in many of our cultures since before the written histories. Poetry provides descriptions and narratives, often telling stories that emotionally capture the reader -- or audience -- with words of warning, sacrifice, or beauty. In many cultures, historical events were documented through captivating storytelling and eventually put into lyrical verse to be passed down from generation to generation. Again, a written history can provide us the facts of what happened, but poetic form can evoke the emotion felt while telling the same story."

Mirkk thoughtfully says, "Words and emotion are crucial in poetry as they intertwine to create a powerful and evocative experience. Through carefully chosen words, poets convey these deep feelings, capturing the essence of one’s experience and stirring emotions within readers. The interplay between words and emotion in poetry allows for a profound connection, enabling self-expression, empathy, and the exploration of the depths of the soul."

Mirkk plainly remarks, "From the moments after the Ur-Daemon War, when the Arkati walked with their beloved Elves..."

Mirkk simply adds, "To the first songs sung by the dwarves as they harvested the beauty of their mountains..."

Mirkk says, "And as the Wendwillow threaded the forest like a needle, keeping their culture alive..."

Mirkk simply says, "Poetry has been a way for us to tell our histories, our cultures, our morals, and our stories."

Mirkk glances at a sheet of silver-edged paper in his hand.

Mirkk politely says, "Without going into too much detail, I will discuss some linguistic devices, such as meter, rhyme, alliteration and assonance, and imagery."

Mirkk announces, "Meter."

Mirkk remarks, "In general terms, meter can be simplified to Iambic and trochaic. An iam is a metrical foot in poetry consisting of two syllables, with the first syllable being unstressed and the second syllable stressed, similar to the beat of a heart."

Mirkk carefully says, "Like da-DUM, da-DUM."

Mirkk knowingly notes, "Conversely, trochaic meter is a stressed syllable followed by an unstressed syllable. So, DUM-da, DUM-da."

Mirkk amusedly notes, "The word "Iamb" is iambic, and "trochee" is trochaic."

Mirkk says, "There are other forms of meter, but I think iambic and trochaic provide a solid understanding."

Mirkk continues, "Now that we understand the syllabic meter, let us string them together into lines, or metrical pattern. A poetic “foot” consists of two syllables, as we mentioned a moment ago. When those “feet” are combined into a line, we now have metrical pattern. A good example of this would be “pentameter” or a series of five “feet.” So, for instance, iambic pentameter would sound like so: da-DUM da-DUM da-DUM da-DUM da-DUM. Almost like a heartbeat, yes?"

Mirkk encouragingly inquires, "Would anyone be able to provide how they might think trochaic metrical line might sound? Perhaps a trochaic pentameter?"

Speaking relievedly to Teaberry, Mirkk exclaims, "Yes!"

Teaberry says, "Trochee trips from long to short."

Mirkk looks thoughtfully at Teaberry.

Speaking understandingly to Teaberry, Mirkk says, "Ah, I think I understand how you mean."

Nairena raises her hand.

Teaberry says, "So it would be DAH-dum, DAH-dum, DAH-dum, DAH-dum. DAH-dum in trochaic pentamenter."

Speaking excitedly to Teaberry, Mirkk exclaims, "Precisely!"

You nod thoughtfully.

Mirkk curiously asks, "Did you have a question or addition?"

Mirkk smiles at Nairena.

Speaking curiously to Mirkk, Nairena asks, "Does the pace or speed matter?"

Mirkk ponders.

Speaking curiously to Mirkk, Nairena asks, "Or does it remain the same regardless?"

Speaking thoughtfully to Nairena, Mirkk says, "I think it does, but that might be a device of the spoken word."

Kothos says, "I wonder how much they vary in language, as well."

You nod in agreement.

Speaking thoughtfully to Nairena, Mirkk says, "I suppose a verse of short, quick words would get the heart racing, if that were the poet's intent."

Mirkk nods at Nairena.

Nairena says, "Like setting the tempo."

Nairena says, "Or mood."

Mirkk says, "Almost like an anxiously beating heart of a guest lecturer tonight."

Mirkk hums distractedly to himself.

Kothos says, "Elven feet seem more blended than Common."

You giggle softly.

Rivienne smiles.

Kothos grins at Mirkk.

Mirkk nods in agreement at Kothos.

You wink at Mirkk.

Speaking quickly to Kothos, Mirkk teases, "Don't spoil my surprise."

Speaking encouragingly to Mirkk, Kothos says, "Not at all."

Mirkk grins.

Mirkk clearly announces, "Now that we have an understanding of meter, let us discuss another aspect of poetry: rhyme. Rhyme in poetry refers to the correspondence of similar or identical sounds at the end of two or more words, typically occurring in the final stressed syllables."

Mirkk continues, "The purpose of rhyme in poetry is to create a sense of musicality and rhythm, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the verses. Rhyme adds structure and cohesion to the poem, aiding in its memorability and creating a pleasing auditory experience for the reader or listener. It helps to unify the poem and create a sense of harmony between different lines or stanzas. Rhyme can also be used to highlight key ideas or create emphasis, contributing to the poem's meaning and impact."

Mirkk notes, "While rhyme may exist sometimes in the middle of a poetic line, we will focus on the predominant end of a line where we most often find the rhyme scheme. Many

may already be familiar with using letters to denote the rhyming scheme of the stanza of a poem. For instance."

Mirkk inclines his head.

Mirkk recites: 

   "I dreamt a shooting star connected one night
    With an eternal one, creating a brilliant light.
    All turned to watch the celestial sky
    In awe that caught their jealous eye."


Mirkk remarks, "Note how the ending sounds of the first pair of lines are similar, as are the second two lines. To place a corresponding letter to each, we would say the first two lines are A and the second two B, thus this stanza has a rhyme scheme of AABB."

Speaking quietly to himself, Kothos repeats, "AABB."

Mirkk thoughtfully inquires, "Would anyone care to try? I shall provide a verse, and you tell me what you believe the rhyme scheme to be? Any volunteers?"

Kothos raises his hand.

You glance around the room.

Mirkk grins at Kothos.

Mirkk nods at Kothos.

You smile at Kothos.

Kothos winks at Mirkk.

Missoni nods encouragingly at Kothos.

Kothos says, "I owe you, after all."

Speaking pleasantly to Kothos, Mirkk says, "Brother Blud."

Mirkk starts chortling.

Kothos stands up.

Kothos nods.

Speaking to Kothos, Mirkk says, "The following verse of the aforementioned poem goes as such:"

Kothos nods once at Mirkk.

Mirkk recites: 

   "All who saw beauty supernal sunder'd
    Could only stop and stare and wonder
    At the passion, power and splendor
    That those heavenly hosts could render."

Mirkk asks, "What do you believe the rhyme scheme of this verse would be?"

Kothos ponders.

Speaking to Kothos, Mirkk admits, "I acknowledge it may be trickier than the first."

Nairena rubs her chin thoughtfully.

Kothos says, "It's a little hard to parse, but it sounds like it would be ABAB."

Kothos says, "At least, when I say it in my head."

Kothos says, "But it could be AAAA, depending on how you recite it."

Speaking to Kothos, Mirkk agrees, "Yes, ABAB, or depending on the - correct!"

Teaberry raises her hand.

Nairena says, "The words that transition or end all end with an er or r."

Kothos smiles at Mirkk.

Speaking excitedly to Kothos, Mirkk says, "AAAA. Granted, there is some wordplay involved with sunder'd."

Mirkk amusedly says, "Poetic license, I suppose."

Speaking to Mirkk, Kothos asks, "Yes, but that's the nature of poetry, isn't it?"

Speaking to Kothos, Mirkk says, "Indeed, my friend."

Xiasa carefully says, "I thought that I had heard AABB, but perhaps I did not hear your accent clearly."

Speaking to Mirkk, Kothos says, "Though, I only recite, myself. You're the actual writer."

Meril says, "It is two couplets to me, but perhaps the sylvan ear is a little different."

Speaking softly to Xiasa, you agree, "I had the same thought too."

Rivienne agrees with Xiasa.

Missoni adopts an agreeable expression.

Speaking to Xiasa, Mirkk agrees, "The words are tricky. It could be read as ABAB, AABB, or AAAA. I suppose it comes down to the speaker, or how it sounds in the reader's mind."

Kothos nods at Xiasa.

Xiasa nods slowly.

Rivienne nods.

Nairena raises her hand.

Speaking politely to Nairena, Mirkk says, "Yes? I'll take this question and then we'll move forward."

Mirkk smiles at Nairena.

Teaberry says, "I was thinking that if it was the verse that followed the first, then the rhyme scheme would be CCDD, because AA was night and light."

Speaking to Xiasa, Kothos says, "Common often makes those endings a little more stilted."

Nairena says, "I grew up listening to my grandmother, aunts and mother singing the stories of my people. The verse only rhymed half the time."

Mirkk grins at Nairena.

Speaking warmly to Nairena, Mirkk says, "And they don't always have to. As a matter of fact, we'll get into some examples."

Nairena says, "So the whole AABB style sounds difficult."

Mirkk says, "And let us take into consideration the native language in which a poem was written."

Mirkk nods slowly.

Mirkk happily says, "We have just discussed meter and rhyme, let us move forward and discuss figurative language, primarily alliteration and assonance, and imagery and symbolism."

Nairena blushes a nice shade of light pink.

Speaking to Mirkk, Kothos says, "Indeed. Or even just the dialect."

Mirkk says, "Alliteration is generally described as the repetition of the same consonant sounds, while assonance would be the repetition of vowels - or vowel sounds."

Mirkk says, "To provide an example, allow me to read from the poem “The Legend of Winterbane” by Tanager Skydancer."

Mirkk put a sheet of silver-edged paper in his leather relics satchel.

Speaking to Mirkk, Kothos says, "One of my favorite works."

Mirkk removes a reddish-gold onyx-inlaid tome from in his ebon leather longcoat.

You agree with Kothos.

Missoni's face lights up with joy.

Mirkk opens his onyx-inlaid tome.

Mirkk quietly reads his onyx-inlaid tome.

Kothos says, "At least, of those not written by Charna, of course."

Mirkk flips through his onyx-inlaid tome.

Mirkk says, "Ah..."

Mirkk peers over the rim of his spectacles.

Mirkk comments, "The Legend of Winterbane, for those not familiar, is a narrative poem. We will discuss narrative poems momentarily. It tells a story of love, sacrifice, and the consequences of wielding a cursed weapon. The narrative elements drive the plot, while the descriptive language and emotional depth evoke a sense of empathy and engagement from the reader."

Meril leans forward and rests her chin in her hand, a thoughtful expression on her face.

Mirkk pushes his spectacles up the bridge of his nose.

Mirkk quietly murmurs, "Ah, yes. Here we are."

Mirkk pokes his finger at a reddish-gold onyx-inlaid tome.

Mirkk recites: 

   "Southward came Carrelan, and all those he met, he slew 
    Southward came the warrior, like a blazing hurricane.
    Defenders of the city gathered as the warning flew 
     Southward comes a man possessed, the tool of Winterbane "

Mirkk remarks, "Note the line, “Southward came the warrior, like a blazing hurricane”. Repeat it in your mind once or twice, listening for the repetition of vowel or consonant sounds."

Mirkk emphasizes, "Southward came the warrior, like a blazing hurricane."

Mirkk inclines his head.

Mirkk notes, "The vowel sound of the letter A is predominant in that line, is it not? Particularly the hard A in the words "came,", “blazing,” and "hurricane." And while more subtle, the consonant W is present in the first part, with "SouthWard came the Warrior."

Mirkk says, "Another aspect of figurative language comes in the forms of imagery and symbolism."

Nairena quietly says, "As an elementalist blazing and hurricane don’t fit."

Kothos says, "It makes for some imaginative suspense. Building an image of foreboding."

Speaking lightly to Nairena, Mirkk says, "Poetic license."

Mirkk grins.

Nairena nods at Mirkk.

Mirkk continues, "Imagery in poetry refers to the use of vivid and sensory language that creates mental pictures and evokes emotions, enabling readers to experience the poem more vividly. Symbolism, on the other hand, involves using objects, actions, or ideas to represent deeper meanings and convey abstract concepts. Together, imagery and symbolism enrich the poetic experience by adding layers of depth, inviting readers to interpret and engage with the poem on multiple levels, and enhancing its power to evoke emotions and provoke thought."

Missoni murmurs, "I have seen many sorcerers conjure a fiery tempest."

Mirkk brightly remarks, "I’m excited to share this next poem with you, as it well captures both imagery and symbolism."

Mirkk smiles quietly to himself.

Speaking quietly to Missoni, Kothos says, "Tanager did it with a pen."

Kothos winks at Missoni.

Missoni flashes a quick grin at Kothos.

Mirkk warmly informs, "The poem is called “The Wendwillow Love Song,” author unknown, but a copy of which has been provided to me by our friend, Master Dendum." Speaking appreciatively to Dendum, Mirkk says, "Thank you, Master Dendum."

Mirkk nods politely at Dendum.

Mirkk clears his throat.

Dendum nods.

Mirkk informs, "The poem exhibits a free verse style with irregular meter and sporadic rhyme most notably due to the translation from Wendwillow gnomish to common. The translation captures the intended alliteration, assonance, vivid imagery, and symbolism to convey themes of love, nature, and a sense of movement..."

Mirkk pensively adds, "...All elements of the essence of the Wendwillow gnomes."

Mirkk gently closes his onyx-inlaid tome, taking care with its pages.

Mirkk put a reddish-gold onyx-inlaid tome in his ebon leather longcoat.

Mirkk removes a sheet of silver-edged paper from in his leather relics satchel.

Mirkk gazes with interest at the silver-edged paper in his hand.

Mirkk clears his throat.

Mirkk recites: 

   "Long may we live, yet here we now lie
    We who walk in the glade, and feel the warm sky
    Each moment we avoid Imaera's eye
    Through thicketed glen and riverbed
    Casting eye where dandelions blow
    Rounding our path to find each other
    Here in the River's Bend."

Mirkk smiles quietly to himself.

Mirkk quietly remarks, "Almost gives one chills, doesn't it?"

Tabubu arches one eyebrow at Dendum in an expression of sardonic amusement.

Missoni nods thoughtfully.

You quietly murmur, "Where dandelions blow."

You nod slowly.

Rivienne smiles.

Mirkk excitedly continues, "But the imagery! One can feel the warmth of the sun on their skin, as if travelling through narrow wooded trails known only by sacred few."

Rivienne says, "It's lovely."

Nairena nods.

Mirkk recites: 

   "In Rain kissed glade, with watery veil
    We do hands entwined, wait out the wretched gale
    Together protected from Imaera's eye
    Upon pitted porous pebbles it seeps
    As low hung branches weep
    Together we will keep
    Here in the Rivers Bend."

Xiasa quietly says, "That is lovely."

You wistfully sigh, "So poignant."

Teaberry says, "Pitted porous pebbles. I love the alliteration."

Mirkk warmly adds, "Pitted porous pebbles -" He smirks, casually injecting, "Alliteration, if you’ll remember." Grinning to himself, he continues, " - Though a visual reference, almost give the sense of those pebbles crunching underfoot, don t they? Or perhaps the river’s bend widens and gurgles as the water flows over those very pebbles."

Mirkk continues, "The words - the word choice - it makes the reader feel immersed in the environment, in the setting. And for symbolism, the notion of avoiding the eye of Imaera - an all-seeing eye of an Arkati - symbolizes how the Wendwillow, forever on the move, have both roots in the forest with nature, and at the same time are never in the same place for any extended period of time."

Teaberry nods enthusiastically at Mirkk!

You nod understandingly at Mirkk.

Mirkk ponders.

Mirkk quietly announces, "Moving from figurative language, I will briefly discuss some of the types of poems found throughout Elanthia, using the aforementioned poems as examples, and then I will close with a brief note on linguistics and a poem that I think is a wonderful example of such."

Mirkk mentions, "Poetry types in Elanthia."

Mirkk glances at a sheet of silver-edged paper in his hand.

Kothos smiles.

Mirkk pushes his spectacles up the bridge of his nose.

Mirkk states, "There are four broad categories of poems across our continent, being epic, lyric, narrative, and descriptive."

Mirkk informs, "An epic poem is a long narrative work that tells the heroic tale of legendary figures, often featuring grand adventures, battles, and the exploration of moral and cultural values."

Mirkk comments, "Bear in mind, some poems fall into multiple categories, or types."

Mirkk nods once.

Mirkk considers, "I believe the best example I may have come across thus far, and discussed today, is the Legend of Winterbane. While no major battle, it tells of one man's love of a woman, great lengths he goes through to be with her, and sadly the fate that befalls them both."

Mirkk quietly adds, "Again, a worthy read."

Mirkk continues, "A lyric poem is a short - though not always - musical, and emotionally expressive type of poetry that conveys personal thoughts, feelings, or reflections of the poet."

Mirkk amusedly remarks, "So, Lady Urpy - for those of us familiar with her - her works might fall into this category."

Mirkk clarifies, "As for examples today, I would offer that the Wendwillow Love Song, with its expressed emotions and experiences of the Wendwillow folk moving about the forest, their ties to nature, the repetition of certain lines, and the structure of the verse, lend to this type of poem."

Mirkk glances at a sheet of silver-edged paper in his hand.

Mirkk carefully says, "A narrative poem is a form of poetry that tells a story, often featuring a sequence of events, characters, and a plot, similar to a narrative in prose."

Kothos says, "Like Winterbane."

Mirkk continues, "For this evening's examples, I would argue both The Legend of Winterbane and Wendwillow Love Song fall into this category. Winterbane telling a story of a man so passionately in love, he would do anything for it - again, evoking strong emotion. Also, the Wendwillow Love Song, telling an almost sad story of the Wendwillow moving throughout the forest - their plight to remain unnoticed, undisturbed, yet unfixed, all while keeping the culture and relations of their peoples intact."

Kothos nods once.

Mirkk nods in agreement at Kothos.

Mirkk announces, "Lastly, the descriptive poem. A descriptive poem is a type of poetry that vividly portrays and captures the sensory details of a person, place, object, or experience, creating a vivid and immersive imagery for the reader."

Mirkk candidly states, "I can think of no better example of a descriptive poem than one likely familiar to at least a few of us in the room, and that is "The Flight to Home" by Isildrich Greyvael Illistim."

Missoni nods slowly.

You nod approvingly.

Mirkk thoughtfully admits, "When first introduced to this poem by my wife, Rohese."

Mirkk rubs his chin thoughtfully.

Mirkk gazes fondly at you.

You demurely lower your misty grey eyes.

You glance at Mirkk and smile in a slow, coy fashion.

Mirkk thoughtfully continues, "I admit, I conducted an analysis of the poem and was surprised to discover that, while the rhyme was there, the meter was..."

Mirkk diplomatically states, "Irregular."

Kothos chuckles.

Sirona smiles.

Mirkk casually remarks, "Naturally this confused me, and it wasn’t until Rohese read the poem to me in the Elven tongue. Even though I did not speak the language, I closed my eyes and listened to the meter, listened for the rhyme."

You smile at Mirkk.

Kothos chuckles.

Mirkk simply adds, "It gave me a clarity and understanding."

Kothos agrees with Mirkk.

Mirkk continues, "So, that said, and as I mentioned earlier, both linguistics and language play a part in meter and rhyme, of the entirety of a poem. Translations what they are, they tend to do their best at conveying the message yet lose a little something in the process."

Mirkk ponders.

Mirkk thoughtfully requests, "As I read this poem, consider the descriptions of each of the major Elven cities. But also listen for the meter, the rhyme, and the figurative language and poetic devices used. As I move into the last verse, I'll note some of you may not understand the words, but I hope that all of you will appreciate the meter and rhyme in its intended language?"

Mirkk smiles.

Mirkk slowly empties his lungs.

Mirkk quietly announces, ""The Flight to Home" by Isildrich Greyvael Illistim."

Mirkk winks at you with a suggestive glint in his eyes.

You gaze fondly at Mirkk.

Mirkk recites: 

   "I roam through the great wide world,
    Vast vistas to rolling seas.
    Yet, none of them can bespell,
     This wandering Illistimi."

Kothos smiles.

Mirkk recites smoothly: 

   "Verdant are the sea-like plains,
    Of my brothers, the Ardenai.
    I enjoyed their winter games-
    On those shorter, darker days.
    
    The beauty of the columbine-
    The gift of a white alyssum-
    Yet, I could not linger here-
    And sought my Ta'Illistim"

Mirkk recites warmly: 

   "Spring found me in Ta'Loenthra-
    To see the festival of the Arts.
    Where artists draw their flowers-
    And the poets sing of hearts.
    
    Of dainty Lady's Slippers-
    Her women will seek as gifts.
    But that's not the poet I am-
    And so I hurried from her cliffs."

Mirkk recites confidently: 

   "In Fortified Ta'Vaalor,
    The summer dragonstalk grew.
    The soldiers form their lines -
    Wearing crimson and ecru.
    
    Though mighty is the wyvern,
    And dalliance calls for feverfew.
    I saw the Lake of Sorrows,
    And bid the fortress my adieu."

Mirkk recites wistfully: 

   "I fly to you, my Shining City,
    To ease this horrid, burning ache.
    I long to see the dainty pansies,
    Floating serenely in your lakes."

Mirkk quietly notes, "This next verse the last. Listen to the meter and rhyme, for those that do not know the language."

Arenglae places a hand over her heart.

Mirkk recites in Elven: 

   "You call to me, my Shining City,
    Beyond thy sapphire gates.
    That's where my feet will carry me-
    And where my yearning abates."

Mirkk closes his eyes for a moment.

You gaze proudly at Mirkk.

Xiasa nods slowly.

Missoni smiles.

Nairena nods. Mirkk reflectively says, "The poem is one of love, of that of the author's desire to be home. It paints a picture of the best qualities of Ta’Ardenai, Ta’Loenthra, and Ta’Vaalor, yet continues to reinforce the author's yearning to be “home” in the Shining City."

Mirkk takes off a set of vaalin half-framed reading spectacles.

Mirkk put a set of vaalin half-framed reading spectacles in his leather relics satchel.

Mirkk put a sheet of silver-edged paper in his ebon leather longcoat.

Mirkk concludes, "Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for attending and humoring me in my discourse on what is undeniably only a small sample of the poetry in Elanthia."

[Applause]

Mirkk appreciatively says, "Thank you."

Mirkk warmly inquires, "Are there any questions?"

Kothos raises his hand.

Meril raises her hand.

Rivienne raises her hand.

Speaking politely to Kothos, Mirkk says, "Brother Blud, you were first."

Mirkk smiles.

Kothos asks, "Are you familiar with the Half-Elven songs that are popular in the Empire?"

Kothos says, "I was just thinking that most of them are narrative, but not all- they definitely have a lyrical quality, as well."

Speaking kindly to Kothos, Mirkk says, "I will not even begin to tell you of all the tomes my darling wife provided me - poems I never knew existed - as I prepared for this lecture. While undoubtedly I have heard them, I cannot recall them at present. But I hope, if you have some, you'll share."

Kothos says, "I wonder if having a series of poems makes it more likely that they'll branch out into various purposes- some of them are written in Elven, as well."

You sheepishly admit, "I am rather fond of poetry."

Speaking to Kothos, Mirkk asks, "And I wonder if they move from common to Elven or Sylvan and back to common throughout the verses?"

Kothos says, "The one I've recited before, about the rock who is dug out of the ground by a woman? That's a Half-Elven song, about a little over a century old."

Speaking softly to Kothos, you say, "Oh, I love that poem."

You place a hand over your heart.

Nairena says, "It must be tough finding a style when you are of two different bloodlines."

Speaking to Mirkk, Kothos says, "All of them seem to incorporate a sense of longing, from either the audience or the subject."

Mirkk smiles at Nairena.

Speaking politely to Nairena, Mirkk says, "Brother Blud has no difficulty finding his own."

Nairena nods at Mirkk.

Mirkk winks at Kothos.

Speaking to you, Kothos says, "I know, you look positively radiant whenever I read it."

You laugh softly, trying to hide your amusement.

Speaking to Mirkk, Nairena says, "I’m guessing the best of both worlds."

You wink at Kothos.

Kothos flashes a quick grin at you.

Speaking kindly to Meril, you say, "I do believe you raised your hand next."

Speaking politely to Meril, Mirkk asks, "Did you have a question?"

Meril nods appreciatively.

Meril says, "Ah, I wished to ask whether you might describe some characteristics of how different you find the poetry of the various cultures."

Mirkk nods understandingly at Meril.

Kothos asks, "I'm afraid I must be away, my friends. Let me know what you all conclude about one of my favorite subjects, yes?"

Kothos says, "Either poetry or Mirkk himself."

Kothos grins.

Kothos winks at Mirkk.

Speaking to Meril, Mirkk responds, "I believe the largest differences between cultures is that of imagery and symbolism."

Mirkk glances at Kothos.

Mirkk grins at Kothos.

Speaking to Meril, Mirkk says, "From what I've read, for instance, the Wendwillow are always on the move, in the forests, very at one with nature... But so are the Tehir."

Speaking plainly to Meril, Mirkk says, "But the Tehir - their language is simpler, at least in translation, and the description and imagery is different - being from the desert."

Meril rubs her chin thoughtfully.

Mirkk holds up his hand and tilts it side to side in a so-so gesture.

Mirkk says, "That is but one example."

Meril nods at Mirkk.

Speaking simply to Meril, Mirkk says, "But as much as I'd like to sit and read every poem, I also enjoy fishing."

Mirkk appears to be trying hard not to grin.

Meril says, "Well, the nymphs of the river and sirens of the deep also love poetry and song, in their own manner that a fisherman might find familiar."

Speaking to Mirkk, Rivienne asks, "I've heard it mentioned that there will be an event involving the creation of sonnets at the Revelia Carnivale. Any hints for me on how not to embarrass myself should I conjure up the courage to participate?"

You smile.

Mirkk looks thoughtfully at Rivienne.

Speaking humbly to Rivienne, Mirkk says, "I have an appreciation for poetry, but I'd not call myself a performer."

Rivienne nods at Mirkk.

Speaking carefully to Rivienne, Mirkk asks, "Have you a poem already in the works?"

Mirkk raises an eyebrow in Rivienne's direction.

Rivienne looks over at Mirkk and shakes her head.

Mirkk nods slowly.

Rivienne says, "No, still working on the conjuring courage part."

Tabubu quietly says, "Sometimes the best poetry comes from the heat of a moment."

Speaking softly to Tabubu, you agree, "When in a state of high emotion."

Tabubu nods knowingly to you.

Speaking quietly to you, Tabubu says, "From the heart."

You nod in agreement at Tabubu.

Speaking thoughtfully to Rivienne, Mirkk says, "You might seek some guidance from those who have performed at House Aspis' Bardfest some years ago. Sadly, it is no longer held, but I'm happy to hear about this upcoming 'impromptu affair'."

Rivienne nods at Mirkk.

Speaking carefully to Tabubu, you inquire, "I am curious about Dhe'nari poetry?"

Mirkk inclines his head.

Speaking softly to Tabubu, you ask, "Do you perhaps have an example?"

Tabubu quietly says, "We have many poems."

Speaking quietly to you, Tabubu says, "I do not, sadly. Things are often kept very private when it comes to words of such."

You nod understandingly at Tabubu.

You softly say, "I wondered if that was the case."

Speaking to Rivienne, Meril says, "The courage is not in writing it, but in performing it. So perform it first for someone in private, even as a draft, and then you will be used to the tension. And maybe they could offer some suggestions as well."

Speaking softly to Tabubu, you say, "I have heard Talinvor share stories in ballad form and often wondered if he wrote poetry too."

You wrinkle your nose.

Mirkk nods in agreement at Meril.

Nairena nods at Meril.

Mirkk says, "As I rehearsed even this, just yesterday...and this morning...and a few moments ago."

Rivienne nods at Meril.

Mirkk bites his lip.

Speaking quietly to you, Tabubu says, "There are exception to no shame in the game. He is very good though."

Rivienne says, "I am also concerned about writing a decent sonnet, I've never tried anything like it."

Meliyara laughs softly, trying to hide her amusement from Tabubu.

You smile at Tabubu.

Mirkk nods.

Speaking understandingly to Rivienne, Mirkk asks, "In iambic pentameter?"

Speaking to Mirkk, Rivienne says, "I believe they have rules of their own."

Rivienne says, "That I'm not very familiar with."

Speaking sympathetically to Rivienne, Mirkk says, "A daunting task. But I believe you can do it. I find the hardest part is trying to start a line with an iamb."

You softly comment, "Some excellent discussion again today on a subject that is close to my heart in more ways than one."

You gaze fondly at Mirkk.

Rivienne agrees with you.

Speaking lightly to Rivienne, Mirkk says, "But even the best poets don't always align strictly with the rules."

Mirkk nods at Rivienne.

You warmly say, "Thank you all, as always, for coming."

Speaking to Mirkk, Rivienne says, "Yes, thank you so much for talking to us today. You've given me further inspiration to give it a try."

Nairena politely says, "Thank you for this lesson on Poetry. I shall strive to try writing my own using this new knowledge."

Mirkk nods at Rivienne.

Speaking to Mirkk, Missoni says, "Thank you ever so. The discussion and exemplars were all lovely."

[Departures]

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