A Party Of Lovers

by John Keats — a poem card from Justes Mots

This witty Keats poem humorously satirizes the affectations and ennui of sentimental lovers gathered for an evening, depicting their languid poses and distractions with gentle mockery. The narrative details—a drowning fly, burnt candles, questions about tailors—create an ironic portrait of fashionable romantic pretense. It appeals to those with a playful, irreverent perspective on love and social gatherings.

Pensive they sit, and roll their languid eyes,
Nibble their toast, and cool their tea with sighs,
Or else forget the purpose of the night,
Forget their tea, forget their appetite.
See with cross'd arms they sit, ah! happy crew,
The fire is going out and no one rings
For coals, and therefore no coals Betty brings.
A fly is in the milk-pot, must he die…

Themes: love · new-baby · wedding · friendship