Timed Writing Rewrite

Eros- the god of love

EP written by Robert Bridges and Eros written by Anne Stevenson describe Eros, the
god of love. The two authors both question the character of Eros through their imagery and
diction, but Bridges is more optimistic in his tone while Stevenson is negative and portrays the
detrimental effects humans have on the god of love.
Robert Bridges begins his poem with the question Why hast though nothing in thy
face? which establishes his curious tone. Bridges then presents Eros through the contradiction
of images: tyrant of the human heart and soft unchristend smile, that shadows neither love
nor guile. The word tyrant has a negative connotation to it, associated with torment and force,
while the human heart provides for a euphonious meaning. Similarly, the contrasting images of a
soft smile and the darkness create conflicting impressions of Eros. These images and diction
portray Bridges feelings toward Eros; one that is curious about the dark side of Eros, but also
believes that there is still hope within the god of love.
Stevenson uses visual imagery and diction as well to question in a mocking tone the god
of love and describe the effects humans have on Eros. Stevenson describes Eros as having
squinty eyes, boxer lips, and patchy wings. Contrasting Bridges perspective, these images
depict the god of love as beaten and rotten, with no hope or light. The cacophonous diction such
as battered visage, slave, and rot all have negative connotations and visualize the effects
love has on Eros.
Although Robert Bridges and Anne Stevenson both question Eros in similar ways, their
use of antithesis, imagery, diction display their varying attitudes toward Eros. Bridges tone was
curious and intrigued because of the paradox of the god of love being godly yet damaged, while
Stevenson explains that the effects of love has destroyed Eros.