In the cup of life, 'tis true,
Dwells a draught of bitter dew—
Disenchantment, sorrow, pain,
Hunger that no bread can still,
Dreary dawns that dawn in vain,
Hopes that torture, joys that kill.
Yet no other cup I know
Where such radiant waters glow:
It contains the song of birds,
And the shining of the sun;
And the sweet unspoken words
We have dreamed of, every one;
Love of women, minds of men.—
Take the cup, nor break it, then.
I am busy working to bring A. Mary F. Robinson's "The Cup of Life" to life through some unique musical arrangements and will have a full analysis of the poem here for you later.
In the meantime, I invite you to explore the poem's themes, structure, and meaning. You can also check out the gallery for other musical arrangements or learn more about A. Mary F. Robinson's life and contributions to literature.
Check back soon to experience how "The Cup of Life" transforms when verse meets melody—a unique journey that makes poetry accessible, engaging, and profoundly moving in new ways.