Bob's Byway

SIR THOMAS WYATT

1503 - 1542




MY GALLEY

 * This poem provides an example of a conceit in a Petrarchan (Italian) sonnet.
My galley chargèd with forgetfulness
Thorough sharp seas, in winter nights doth pass
'Tween rock and rock; and eke mine enemy, alas,
That is my lord, steereth with cruelness,
 * Sir Thomas Wyatt introduced the Italian sonnet form to English poetry.
And every oar a thought in readiness,
As though that death were light in such a case.
An endless wind doth tear the sail apace
Of forcèd sighs and trusty fearfulness.
To Conceit in the Glossary
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To Petrarchan Sonnet in the Glossary
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A rain of tears, a cloud of dark disdain,
Hath done the wearied cords great hinderance;
Wreathèd with error and eke with ignorance.
The stars be hid that led me to this pain.
Drownèd is reason that should me consort,
And I remain despairing of the port.