We observe, in the first place, that the rhythm is very pronounced. It reminds us of the rhythm of The Ride from Ghent, and suggests, in fact, what we soon discover to be true, that the two poems are in spirit very closely allied.
l. 2-6 are intended to win our sympathy for the hero. Observe his courage in riding unarmed and alone.
l. 10.—The accent on gallant is on the final syllable. Observe how the emphasis on -lant, came, and late retards the movement and suggests the contrast between Lochinvar’s hope and his failure to arrive in time.
l. 11.—Note the contempt in laggard and dastard. Also in line 16, where the movement is again retarded.
l. 19-24.—How cleverly Lochinvar conceals his true intention, under the guise of indifference!
l. 20.—Love swells like ocean tides, but diminishes with equal rapidity: I can get along without your daughter.
l. 32.—Galliard: a lively dance.
l. 33-34.—Bring out the pictures clearly. Do not slur.
l. 37.—Accelerate the movement, but not with a manufactured speed. Catch the spirit of haste and the movement will accelerate itself.
l. 41-42.—Note the triumphant joy of Lochinvar.