Vocabulary and Poetic Analysis

Embalmer

• To embalm means to preserve a corpse from decay.
• An embalmer prepares a body for a funeral.

Embowered

• Surrounded by or sheltered, especially with trees or climbing plants.

Soothest

• Coined by Keats.
• Means most soothing, but its sound also helps to convey a sense of smoothness.

Poppy

• The medically trained Keats would be familiar with opiates produced by the opium poppy.
• Opiates were used to reduce pain or induce sleep.

Wards

• The ridges or bars in a lock.

Casket

• A small ornamental box or chest for holding jewels or other valued objects.

Andrew Motion and Keats

• Commented on the delicious drowsiness of their lines.
• Their rhymes work hard to modify the Shakespearean form.
• Avoiding the final couplet to convey a sense of irresolution and openness.