A Classic Expression of “Before”:The Word “Ere” in Poetry

The Word “Ere” in Poetry: A Classic Expression of “Before”

In the world of poetry, language takes on a heightened form, where words are chosen not only for their meaning but also for their sound, rhythm, and emotional resonance. Poets often use archaic or less common words to evoke a particular mood or to fit the meter and rhyme scheme of their verses. One such word that frequently appears in classic poetry is “ere,” an old-fashioned term that means “before.”

Understanding “Ere” in Poetry

The word “ere” is a preposition or conjunction that was commonly used in English before the modern “before” became widespread. “Ere” is derived from Old English and Middle English, where it was used similarly to how “before” is used today. In poetry, “ere” serves the same function as “before,” indicating something that happens earlier in time or prior to another event.

For example, in William Shakespeare’s works, “ere” appears frequently to create a sense of antiquity or to maintain the meter of the line. Consider the following line from Shakespeare’s play Macbeth:

“Ere the bat hath flown his cloistered flight,
Ere to black Hecate’s summons
The shard-borne beetle with his drowsy hums
Hath rung night’s yawning peal, there shall be done
A deed of dreadful note.”

In this passage, “ere” is used twice to mean “before,” setting the stage for actions that are to take place before other events.

The Poetic Utility of “Ere”

One of the primary reasons poets favor the word “ere” over “before” is its brevity. “Ere” is a monosyllable, which makes it easier to fit into the meter of a poem, particularly in lines of iambic pentameter or other rhythmic structures where syllable count is crucial. Additionally, “ere” carries a certain archaic charm, lending the poem an air of timelessness or connecting it to the traditions of older English literature.

Beyond its practical utility, “ere” can also evoke a specific tone or atmosphere. Because it is less common in contemporary usage, it can make a poem feel more formal, solemn, or reflective. This is why “ere” is often found in poems dealing with themes of mortality, time, or historical events.

Examples of “Ere” in Classic Poetry

“Ere” appears in many notable works of poetry, especially those written in the English Renaissance and Romantic periods. Here are a few examples:

1. John Milton’s Paradise Lost (1667):
   

   “Ere half my days, in this dark world and wide,
   And that one talent which is death to hide
   Lodged with me useless.”

   In this excerpt, Milton uses “ere” to reflect on the passage of time and the use of talents before it is too late.

2. William Wordsworth’s Lines Composed a Few Miles Above Tintern Abbey (1798):
   

   “Ere with cold beads of midnight dew,
   Had mingled tears of thine.”

   Wordsworth employs “ere” to establish a sequence of events, heightening the emotional impact of the poem’s reflection on nature and memory.

3. William Blake’s The Chimney Sweeper (1789):
   

   “Ere my tongue
   Could scarcely cry ‘weep! ‘weep! ‘weep! ‘weep!'”

   Blake’s use of “ere” emphasizes the innocence and youth of the chimney sweeper before life’s harsh realities took hold.

The Enduring Appeal of “Ere”

Though “ere” is an archaic word, it continues to be used in poetry today, especially by poets who wish to evoke a classical feel or adhere to a strict metrical structure. Its simplicity, elegance, and connotations of an earlier time make it a valuable tool for poets aiming to create works that resonate with the rhythms and traditions of English literature.

In modern poetry, “ere” may be used more sparingly, often in a deliberate effort to evoke the past or to add a layer of meaning through the use of language that is out of ordinary conversation. When a poet chooses to use “ere” instead of “before,” they are drawing on the rich history of English poetry, creating a bridge between the present and the literary traditions of the past.

Conclusion

“Ere” is a small but powerful word in the poet’s lexicon, representing the concept of “before” in a form that is both concise and resonant with historical significance. Whether used to fit a meter, evoke a bygone era, or simply to maintain the stylistic choices of classical poetry, “ere” remains a beloved and enduring part of poetic language. Its continued presence in poetry today is a testament to the timeless nature of the art form and the ways in which language can evolve while still retaining connections to its roots.