Adonais

audiobook

Adonais

by Percy Bysshe Shelley

EN·~4 hours

Chapters

Description

The poem is an elegy written in response to the early death of a fellow poet, blending personal sorrow with a broader meditation on art and mortality. Its structure follows classical conventions, offering a measured, lyrical flow that guides the listener through grief and hope. The opening sets a tone of reverent admiration, positioning the departed as a beacon of poetic brilliance.

As the speaker mourns, he also wrestles with questions of fame, the role of the poet in society, and the transcendence of creative spirit beyond earthly limits. The language is rich yet accessible, weaving mythic allusions with heartfelt confession, making the work feel both timeless and intimate. Listeners will hear a compelling mix of melancholy and uplift, as the poem moves from personal lament to a celebration of enduring inspiration.

Though composed in the early nineteenth‑century, its themes of loss, legacy, and the power of imagination remain resonant today. This makes it an inviting listen for anyone drawn to reflective poetry that speaks to the universal experience of saying goodbye.

Details

Language

en

Duration

~4 hours (284K characters)

Publisher of text edition

Project Gutenberg

Credits

Produced by Charles Aldarondo, Keren Vergon, Sjaani and PG Distributed Proofreaders

Release date

2003-11-01

Rights

Public domain in the USA.

About the author

Percy Bysshe Shelley

Percy Bysshe Shelley

1792–1822

A brilliant, rebellious voice of the Romantic era, this poet is remembered for lyrical intensity, bold political ideas, and unforgettable works such as "Ozymandias" and "To a Skylark." Though he died young, his poetry only grew more influential after his death.

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