The Highwayman
The wind was a torrent of darkness upon the gusty trees,
The moon was a ghostly galleon tossed upon cloudy seas,
The road was a ribbon of moonlight looping the purple moor,
And the highwayman came riding--
Riding--riding--
The highwayman came riding, up to the old inn door.
He'd a French cocked hat on his forehead, and a bunch of lace at his chin;
He'd a coat of the claret velvet, and breeches of fine doe-skin.
They fitted with never a wrinkle; his boots were up to his thigh!
And he rode with a jeweled twinkle--
His rapier hilt a-twinkle--
His pistol butts a-twinkle, under the jeweled sky.
Over the cobbles he clattered and clashed in the dark inn-yard,
He tapped with his whip on the shutters, but all was locked and barred,
He whistled a tune to the window, and who should be waiting there
But the landlord's black-eyed daughter--
Bess, the landlord's daughter--
Plaiting a dark red love-knot into her long black hair.
Dark in the dark old inn-yard a stable-wicket creaked
Where Tim, the ostler listened--his face was white and peaked--
His eyes were hollows of madness, his hair like mouldy hay,
But he loved the landlord's daughter--
The landlord's black-eyed daughter;
Dumb as a dog he listened, and he heard the robber say:
"One kiss, my bonny sweetheart; I'm after a prize tonight,
But I shall be back with the yellow gold before the morning light.
Yet if they press me sharply, and harry me through the day,
Then look for me by moonlight,
Watch for me by moonlight,
I'll come to thee by moonlight, though hell should bar the way."
He stood upright in the stirrups; he scarce could reach her hand,
But she loosened her hair in the casement! His face burnt like a brand
As the sweet black waves of perfume came tumbling o'er his breast,
Then he kissed its waves in the moonlight
(O sweet black waves in the moonlight!),
And he tugged at his reins in the moonlight, and galloped away to the west.
He did not come in the dawning; he did not come at noon.
And out of the tawny sunset, before the rise of the moon,
When the road was a gypsy's ribbon over the purple moor,
The redcoat troops came marching--
Marching--marching--
King George's men came marching, up to the old inn-door.
They said no word to the landlord; they drank his ale instead,
But they gagged his daughter and bound her to the foot of her narrow bed.
Two of them knelt at her casement, with muskets by their side;
There was Death at every window,
And Hell at one dark window,
For Bess could see, through her casement, the road that he would ride.
They had bound her up at attention, with many a sniggering jest!
They had tied a rifle beside her, with the barrel beneath her breast!
"Now keep good watch!" and they kissed her. She heard the dead man say,
"Look for me by moonlight,
Watch for me by moonlight,
I'll come to thee by moonlight, though Hell should bar the way."
She twisted her hands behind her, but all the knots held good!
She writhed her hands till her fingers were wet with sweat or blood!
They stretched and strained in the darkness,
and the hours crawled by like years,
Till, on the stroke of midnight,
Cold on the stroke of midnight,
The tip of one finger touched it! The trigger at least was hers!
The tip of one finger touched it, she strove no more for the rest;
Up, she stood up at attention, with the barrel beneath her breast.
She would not risk their hearing, she would not strive again,
For the road lay bare in the moonlight,
Blank and bare in the moonlight,
And the blood in her veins, in the moonlight, throbbed to her love's refrain.
Tlot tlot, tlot tlot! Had they heard it? The horse-hooves, ringing clear;
Tlot tlot, tlot tlot, in the distance! Were they deaf that they did not hear?
Down the ribbon of moonlight, over the brow of the hill,
The highwayman came riding--
Riding--riding--
The redcoats looked to their priming! She stood up straight and still.
Tlot tlot, in the frosty silence! Tlot tlot, in the echoing night!
Nearer he came and nearer! Her face was like a light!
Her eyes grew wide for a moment, she drew one last deep breath,
Then her finger moved in the moonlight--
Her musket shattered the moonlight--
Shattered her breast in the moonlight and warned him--with her death.
He turned, he spurred to the West; he did not know who stood
Bowed, with her head o'er the casement, drenched in her own red blood!
Not till the dawn did he hear it, and his face grew grey to hear
How Bess, the landlord's daughter,
The landlord's black-eyed daughter,
Had watched for her love in the moonlight, and died in the darkness there.
Back, he spurred like a madman, shrieking a curse to the sky,
With the white road smoking behind him and his rapier brandished high!
Blood-red were his spurs in the golden noon, wine-red was his velvet coat
When they shot him down in the highway,
Down like a dog in the highway,
And he lay in his blood in the highway, with the bunch of lace at his throat.
And still on a winter's night, they say, when the wind is in the trees,
When the moon is a ghostly galleon tossed upon cloudy seas,
When the road is a gypsy's ribbon looping the purple moor,
The highwayman comes riding--
Riding--riding--
The highwayman comes riding, up to the old inn-door.
Over the cobbles he clatters and clangs in the dark inn-yard,
He taps with his whip on the shutters, but all is locked and barred,
He whistles a tune to the window, and who should be waiting there
But the landlord's black-eyed daughter--
Bess, the landlord's daughter--
Plaiting a dark red love-knot into her long black hair.
Commentary
This is a poem I can rarely glance at without reading all the way through, and can rarely read without a shiver. It is also, IMHO, one of Noyes’ most perfect poems, in terms of effortless, compelling rhythm and simple, yet wonderfully lyrical phrases. Loreena McKennitt has a hauntingly beautiful version on her album ‘The Book of Secrets’.
Biographical Notes
English poet, a traditionalist remembered chiefly for his lyrical verse.
Noyes’ first volume of poems, The Loom of Years (1902), published while he was still at the University of Oxford, was followed by others that showed patriotic fervour and a love for the sea. He taught modern English literature at Princeton University in the United States from 1914 to 1923. Of Noyes’s later works, the most notable is the epic trilogy The Torch-Bearers (1922-30), which took as its theme the progress of science through the ages. His autobiography, Two Worlds for Memory, appeared in 1953.
– Encyclopaedia Britannica
Criticism
Alfred Noyes was born at Staffordshire, September 16, 1880. He is one of
the few contemporary poets who have been fortunate enough to write a kind
of poetry that is not only saleable but popular with many classes of
people.
[...]
What is most appealing about his best verse is its ease and heartiness;
this singer's gift lies in the almost personal bond established between
the poet and his public. People have such a good time reading his
vivacious lines because Noyes had such a good time writing them.
– Louis Untermeyer, Modern British Poetry
And, in contradistinction
His first book, The Loom of Years (1902), was published when he was only 22 years old, and Poems (1904) intensified the promise of his first publication. Swinburne, grown old and living in retirement, was so struck with Noyes’s talent that he had the young poet out to read to him. Unfortunately, Noyes has not developed his gifts as deeply as his admirers have hoped. His poetry, extremely straightforward and rhythmical, has often degenerated into cheap sentimentalities and cheaper tirades; it has frequently attempted to express programs and profundities far beyond Noyes’s power.
– ibid.
[See <http://www.columbia.edu/acis/bartleby/mbp/58.html> for the whole
essay, which is longish]
— Martin
Show 179 commentsHide comments
From the Wondering Minstrels mailing list, 1999–2008.
Rob Hindley · 30 June 2000
Hello there,
My name is Rob and I really like this poem, have you got any infomation on Alfred Noyes? If you have could you please send it to me at
I thank you in advance
Rob Hindley.
JBarff · 22 August 2000
Hey - I hope SOMEONE gets this!
The Highwayman - one of the finest poems. Has anyone seen the illustrations by Charles Causley? If not - then search them out. They are stupendous!
Jane (England)
Cat Freshwater · 23 September 2000
Isn’t there a typo in the first line? Shouldn’t it read “…darkness among the gusty trees”?
Burgess Lora A · 29 September 2000
A very skilled female musician has applied this poem to classical music. You’re probably already aware of her. Lorena McKennitt. I listen to this song almost on a daily basis and the violins, along with her own skilled ranges amaze me.
mlayton · 3 November 2000
This is truly a wonderfully moving poem-
Thank you for making it available
Carol-
Cecilia · 20 November 2000
Been hunting for the words to this for some time. Ilearnt it as a youngster and just wanted to visit old memories.Thank you.
Barry & Sandy Clark · 13 January 2001
I lost my mother’s poetry book 40 years ago with this poem in it and she has never let me live it down. I am sending her a copy and I know I will now be forgiven. Thank you, thank you, thank you. Sandy Clark
Glasshouse Mountains, Queensland, Australia
PFisher637 · 24 January 2001
A very moving piece with everything that needs to be in a poem.
Jennifer Czech · 2 February 2001
I LOVE THIS POEM SSSOOO….. MUCH! WHEN MY 7TH GRADE CLASS READ IT I FELL IN LOVE WITH IT WHEN THE FIRST LINE WAS READ. I LOVE ALL THE REPITION AND THE ALLITERATION NOYES PUT IN THIS POEM. THIS PEOM IS DEFINATLY ONE OF MY FAVORITES.
— Jennifer Czech
— EarthLink: It’s your Internet.
Chris Cornwell · 9 February 2001
Thank you for putting this poem on the net. Yours was the only version I could find.
Chris
Ruth Storms · 14 February 2001
Thank you so very much for making this lovely poem available on the internet. I know I have it in an old text book on English Lit., but I couldn’t remember the author. I’ve been hunting for hours but in vain until I thought of you. What a beautiful thing it is! Ruth
Art Wolinsky · 26 February 2001
I’m a little surprised no one has mentioned the Phil Ochs version of the Highwayman from the late 60’s. (I guess I’m aging myself.) It isn’t the complete poem, but the rendition captures the rising crescendo of the events and emotions in the poem. The Lorena McKennit version is complete and beautiful, but I favor the Ochs version. …but then again, Phil Ochs is my favorite folk artist.
Fred Morris · 11 March 2001
What a pleasure to find this poem again after so many years! When I was a child, the picture painted by the first stanza made such an impression on me that I took the time to memorize it, and I still find myself repeating it whenever I happen to notice that the moon is a ghostly galleon tossed upon cloudy seas.
Kristina Arnold · 28 March 2001
what is an ostler?? I have seen it refered to as holster but am confused…Please help if you can.
Lord-Batu · 6 April 2001
The version I first read said Tim loved the landlord’s “red-lipped daughter”. Has anyone else seen this version?
Brian Struthers · 7 April 2001
This has got to be my favorite poem, we read it in grade 7 and I have been looking for it since then, I love the whole story behind it and the incredible pictures he can paint And a Ostler is a Stableman at an inn
Lynne MacMillan · 30 May 2001
I love the poem the highwayman we did a unit on it in school we got to listen to a song called the Highwayman it’s so cool me and my friend Lindsay love it!!!!
from sara
Lynn J. Nye · 9 June 2001
Hi. I was just wondering if anyone had any info about the time period this poem takes place during. I’m writing a story based on this poem and I’m trying to get all the research together for it. If anyone has anything, please email me at . I’m just trying to get this as historically/factually correct as possible. I’ve been having a hard time finding anything, so whatever anyone has would be greatly appreciated. Thanks a bunch!
ABINC · 13 June 2001
I first read “The Highwayman” thanks to an enlightened English teacher in the 7th grade. I was moved by it then and neither the passage of time nor countless rereadings have diminished the thirll I have each time I take it up. I’ve wondered if anyone ever put this piece to a drama, say a video short. I know that another famous poem, “The Ballad of Frankie and Johnny” ended up as a stylized jazz number that was visually seductive but too shallow. Despite that criticism, It proves that some of these ballads can be made into stunning visual presentations. I would really relish WATCHING “The Highwayman.”
– Jay L. Stern
Dave & Anna Miller · 18 June 2001
I first came across this poem when, as an adult, I was reading the Anne of Green Gables Series (Elizabeth Montgomery?). Then the mini series came on TV and included a wonderful scene where the character of Anne recites the poem for a wonderstruck audience. I had often thought about the poem as I had never read or heard it in it’s entirety…until this morning. I was on my way into the city of Perth (Australia) with my husband and he was playing one of his favourite CD’s by Loreena McKennitt. I had heard this track numerous times before but today I really listened and when I heard “the highwayman came riding, riding, riding…” I said “I think this is a famous poem”. My husband said “It’s a bit of a sad one.” as he had heard the ballad often. Wonderfully moved, right there in the snail paced peak hour traffic, I decided to find the words to the poem. So now after a long day I find your web site (second on the search list). Thanks a million, I can now revisit a poem I never really found until now. I can share it with my husband who found it a different way and finally helped me find it. Once again we meet from different directions and then share the same path.
Anna and Dave (Australia)
David · 13 July 2001
Um… Hi…. The Highwayman is my favorite poem. I first heard it while my mom was playing her Lorenna McKennit cd. Back a few replies, you said that She leaves out the verse of Tim the Ostler… Well, she does, but she also leaves out another one… I cant at the moment think of it… But, I’m 12 And I have really enjoyed this poem… (It’s strange for me to like poems at all!) So, I would recommend this poem to Anyone!
Bernadette Russo · 3 August 2001
From Peter R.
One of the most memorable poems from my childhood i.e. late 50’s early 60’s.
For the information of readers, Loreena McKennit, a Canadian singer, has set the poem to music on her album “The Book of Secrets”. I don’t think her rendition of the song does the poem justice, although she is a skilled musician and singer.
I imagine the poem , if sung, should have a driving beat reminiscent of the highwayman riding, which is the logical rhythm of the song.
Poems do not always succeed as songs unless adapted and re-written so the music complements the lyric. Sung as is, there are too many syllables to make it scan correctly as a song. I’d be interested to hear other reader’s comments
Peter R
DEBORAH M HARRISON · 8 August 2001
I LIKE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
reference1 · 24 September 2001
Yes this is indeed a great poem. I’m surprised at the number of people who didn’t think to ask at their local library for it. Remember - librarians are your ultimate search engine!
Rachel_P_2000 · 1 October 2001
My mother studied this poem at school in the late 1940’s. She read it to me as a young girl and I have read it now to my son (whose seven). It’s powerful description of the atmosphere and emotions makes it one of the most moving and passionate love stories I have ever read. It is full of drama and shows tenderness and dignity and my son loves it being read aloud. I think it is good choice for boys as an example of poetry and love. Because it’s not all ‘sissy stuff’!
stephanie.wisbey · 8 October 2001
Thank you so much for printing The Highwayman. My daughter has been searching for it for some time - I could not remember the author and could not find the old school book where I first read this brilliant poem. With appreciation and thanks, Stephanie and daughter Chloe.
John D · 31 October 2001
As a child, I appreciated the thrill of it. As an adult, I appreciate the depth of it.
jschofield · 2 November 2001
i think more of alfred noyes poems should be added to this page
Hendrickson Derek-DHENDRI1 · 7 November 2001
Nice try, but this version is fatally flawed for me. It’s as though whoever put this on the Internet did so from memory. For example, it’s ON the highway not IN the highway. And the landlord’s daughter is red-lipped to Tim the ostler. And there are many places where the words have been altered from Alfred Noyes’ original perfection to be rendered less so. A better version is available at
[broken link] http://www.theofficenet.com/~darkflow/darkweb/highwayman.html and though it has a couple of obvious typo’s, including the author’s name, the poem is accurate and much more satisfying to the purists of poetry. If you click on “Select All” and save it to a Word document, it will be formatted correctly.
Sebastian Millan · 16 November 2001
What is the theme of the “Highwayman”? Please answer back.
Thank You
Tessa McLean · 15 December 2001
Like so many others I learnt this poem as a child and couldn’t remember the author. Thank you for posting this on the web, I have to agree with Derek Henderson about the version his link takes you to the version I learnt. Maybe there has been some translation as it crossed the Atlantic
- so many comments seem to be from Americans.
I can now go and look for an anthology of his poetry, so thank you.
Tessa
amy · 8 January 2002
as to the written….. i from l.a. once sat at a window and……( a woman running down the street screaming, the man in the moon is frowning….people laugh…. and find her dead in the morning) go figure……..and so it goes….why? i guess well be here from time to time till all is known. try to injoy and make the best of the blessings we forget to count. and so be with you.
~][)em · 11 January 2002
I am so glad to see this poem. It has to be my all time favorite and still brings tears to my eyes when I read it. Its haunting and lovely and so terribly sad, just as love is sometimes.
I found this poem the first time in the childrens book of poems that came with my Worldbook Encyclopedia my father bought for us, the picture that they had in the book next to this poem was beautiful as well and I so wish I could find it.
Thank you for making me remember this poem, Celeste Bynum
Bracken Lodge · 4 February 2002
I am stuck with my homework on this poem. Do you know a site with information on the characters, theme and use of language of this poem. I do really like this poem. Hazel, 12
Diana Wiant · 9 February 2002
I read this poem in my Literature class (when I was actually supposed to be reading A Christmas Carol) and I loved it! I wanted the words so bad! Thank You! I also own Loreena McKennitt’s The Book of Secrets and love the song The Highwayman.
a problem fixer · 11 February 2002
This is my favorite poem because I could always understand it. It wasn’t like one of those poems that you need a explaination before you can really understand and apperacate it. I’m 12 and this has been my favorite poem since I was 9, when I frist read it and memorized it. i noticed a few mistakes, but oh well. Thanx 4 poting it here!
{>~Megan~<}
Reva Ofarrell · 21 February 2002
my daughter was given four verses in school to learn of this poem and she was eager to know what happened in the end she is 11 years old and her only comment so far is That was really sad and beautiful that they are now together in heaven!
Don Loper · 25 February 2002
This is my favourite poem of old . I learned it in grade school. At 57 years of age the story still haunts me. It’s rich description, rhyme and rhythm all delight the senses This one poem has urged me to become a poets as well. I have been writing since my late forties and would like to aspire to Alfred Noyes’ great talent of this beautifully crafted story poem.
Sincerely
Julie Szabo
you may Email me at dloper23@shaw .ca
PS
Do you know the poem “Black Bill’s Honeymoon”? Someone said Alfred Noyes had written it but I have not been able to find it. Thank you.
Cathy · 10 March 2002
My mother used to read this poem to me as a child. then when in high school we had to read it again and it brought back those memories. I have my mothres old poetry book of “A thousand and one Poems” a very old book, most of the authors in this book were still alive at the time of printing, many from the eighteen hundreds. This poem is in the book with the authors picture still alive at that time. This poem has meant so much for me as my mother is now passed on. Thank you for allowing me to find it on the webb, since i am apart from the book. stationed in guam due to the 9-11 events. again thank you for bringing a few happy memories back during this time of separation and lonelness. my email address is
thanks Catherine Long
Daigh22 · 14 March 2002
I’m a 7th grader and I just read “The Highwayman” in school, because of a very talented literature teacher I read things as not just words, but feelings. When I read this poem I realized the enduring love, passion, force of seperation, and sacrifice. The most tear summoning part of this poem is the amount of sacrifice that one would give for another. This poem taught me the strength of love and I will be forever grateful for one of the most wonderful teachers in the world to teach me to read and listen to the words with my heart.
David
Tiner Family · 26 March 2002
My homework is to do a report about this poem. I like the poem alot but not when my stupid Language teacher reads it aloud. I like to read it alone because it seems more thrilling!!!!!!
Miquel Faig · 8 April 2002
I know there are many errors in this poem, but one very fatal one is that in the poem above it is written that they tied her with the barrel to her breast.
Well, if they REALLY did that then it wouldnt of been her breast that blows up, but her jaw. I should of written “ with the MUZZLE to her chest”
- Amanda -
Mandy · 15 April 2002
I LOVE this poem! It is my favorite and I will always look up to Alfred Noyles since I also want to be a poet.
Musser · 26 April 2002
The Highwayman is one of the most heartrending poems I have yet read. When I took in even the first stanza I loved it and even more did it fascinate me when I had finished It is a truly great piece of literature, a work of pure artistry and talent, and I am glad that there is still such gift and skill in this world. Always will this have a special place in the mind of all who seeks what is truly good and meaningful. I am so glad this was posted on the Internet, for I have been searching for it since I read it in my 7th grade language arts class. Oh, and by the way, Dave and Anna Miller, it was Lucy Maud Montgomery(Anne of Green Gables is one of my favorite books!)
Lara
delia · 28 April 2002
The first time I ever heard of this poem was when I bought Loreena McKennitt’s album “book of secrets” and I loved it ever since. I like poems which tell a story you can understand without having too many problems, because English is not my mother language and in some cases I have still problems to catch the meaning of some words or phrases, because we wouldn’t use them in the same way in my own language, but with the Highwayman I have no such problems.
Delia
Stephanie Chadwick · 17 May 2002
I love this poem, its FAB!! thanx v. much for posting it to the net, i couldnt find it anywhere else
Can anyone tell me what dates he wrote it, i need it for an english essay i’m writing.
ta v. much,
steph.xx
Pauleen Livermore · 30 May 2002
I am in the seventh grade and Hawthorne Junior High in Pocatello, ID and this poem was in our English books. Our teacher, Ms. Ragen, read it to us. I loved it and have wanted a copy to put in my collection. Thank you so much for putting it on the net!
-Anna
HEIDI BICKING · 18 June 2002
I am not sure if any of you are aware of this, but there is a wonderful book entitled “Look for Me by Moonlight” by Mary Downing Hahn that captures the mood of this poem perfectly, without plageorizing or stealing from the actual story in any way. it’s completely her own work, and is found (embarrassingly enough) among the Teen bookshelves. Do not let this fool you. It does not use a line from the poem as a title fot naught.
also, an ostler is synonomous with hostler, which is like an inkeeper, somebody who takes care of the horses and such.
Veronica · 30 June 2002
I really need like a paraphrasing of this poem, please help
Steve Wright · 9 July 2002
IOf you want a song version of “The Highwayman” , Phil Ochs did it in the mid sixties - available on the Phil Ochs “there but for fortune” CD – a great rendition of a great poem.
Steve wright
Steve Wright · 12 July 2002
Does anyone remember a version the the story on either A&E or Masterpiece Theather sometime in the the last 20+years. I seem to remember one but can’t find it. I can see the Highwayman “clashing across the cobbles” and “ the white road smoking behind him” but I can’t remember where it saw it.
Great movie
Ronald Miller · 16 August 2002
I learned this poem as a lad during WW2 in England, to a rattle of machinegun fire as the Battle of Britain was fought over our heads - one of our teachers (we called them form masters) would recite it in the darkness of the air raid shelter, and the thrill of the story overcame the fear we might have felt for the outside world in travail above us. I still get the same thrill reading it today, 60 years later. Thanks for publishing it. Ron Miller, Dexter NM.
Ronald Miller · 17 August 2002
Since my comment did not print in full the first time, I’ll try to remember exactly what I wrote. I learned the poem as a boy in England during WW2. One of our teachers (we called them form masters) used to recite it in the semi-darkness of the air raid shelter, to the rattle of machinegun fire as the Battle of Britain was fought over our heads. The ghostly thrill of the poem did much to alleviate the horror of the mad world outside. I still get the same thrill when I read it today, more than 60 years later. Thank you for publishing it! Ron Miller, Dexter NM.
Martha Kirk · 12 September 2002
I read this poem in a forensics competition when I was in high school. As I started to read, the room was full of people, with their attendant moving and shuffling, but by the time I reached the point where The Highwayman is killed, there was total silence in the room, every eye was focused on me, and the you could cut the tension with a knife. And when I finished, there was silence for two or three seconds before there was a sort of collective sigh. I could feel that everyone of those people had been transported to the England of the 1730s or 1740s along with me. Very powerful stuff!
By the way, there was a movie made in the 1940s (I’m guessing) that was called “The Highwayman” and was supposed to be based on the poem, but the story was very different.
Lowther Charles COL · 23 September 2002
There are several errors in the test of this poem as represented here. For example - “among the gusty trees”, not “upon the gusty trees”., and “ribbon of moonlight over the purple moor” not “looping the purple moor”. There are others.
Chuck Lowther
Rex B · 24 October 2002
this is my fav poem as my father read it to me as a child…the cadence of the poem rang as hoofbeats in my head…the emotional pull it had on me as a child still exists…thank you for submitting this poem
Greg Young · 5 November 2002
Hmmmmmm, Aparrently I am not the only one to first read this in the 7th grade, yet I have been searching for it for decades now, and no one I had talked to ever heard about it. I was starting to question if in the 19 years sice last reading it I had forgotten the true title. Then a very informed friend found your site. TY for giving this great poem the publicity it has warrented since it’s creation.
For the one person who said to ask their librarian, rest assured that was my first stop after performing my own searches. unluckly, it wasn’t a poem they had read in school, and had no information. Yet I agree, the librarions are the words best search engine.
ArchaeIndyJ · 14 November 2002
Thanks for putting this poem up! I am reciting it in front of my sophmore class, freshman, parents and teachers, so I was hoping to find a copy online! I luv this poem, the desriptions are so well put together that I can immediately form a picture of this in my mind! Once again, thank you for posting it, - KT
Elizabeth · 23 November 2002
Hi. Ooo, I noticed that someone else was also inspired to write a story based on the poem. :-) Anyways, I was wondering about the time period in which this poem takes place. I’m writing a story based on the poem and need some background on normal everyday life in this time period. So if anyone can fill me in a little, that be just awesome. Any info would be greatly appreciated. My email is . Thank you! :-)
SCOTT PHILLIPS · 11 December 2002
“The Highwayman” was first copyrighted in 1906. You’ll most likely find the best help for your project at askjeeves.com.
SCOTT PHILLIPS · 11 December 2002
The Highwayman is truly a wonderful poem and I think it inspired us both! I would like to paint a scene or two from it, but like you, I also need to research the time period. It was definitely during the American Revolution, because the Redcoats (the British Army cloaked in red uniforms) were a main feature in the poem. Research the dates between 1775 and 1783; your best bet would be to search your local library or askjeeves.com. If you come across any costume tips, e-mail a picture or description to . Good luck!
RUSSELL STEVENS · 4 January 2003
i heard this first today at my friends house. she has Lorena Mkennitts book of secrets and a book of stories with the highwayman in it. we do a lot of drama and were thinking of doing a at home video short, but would we need to get legal permission to use the words or anything? i fell completely in love with the highwayman it’s my favorite poem.
Cassie248 · 6 January 2003
I absolutely love this poem. My eighth grade English teacher, Mrs. Borst would play music when we wrote in our journals. One day she played this song and I was overwhelmed with my liking of it. I got the lyrics offline and eventually got the music to it, I can now know it by heart. I sing this to my little brother, and I would offer it to anybody. This poem is beautiful. Cassie
Bridsul1 · 15 January 2003
i read it in class at rock lake middle school i really liked it
Thierry · 17 January 2003
I discouved that poem last week, thanks to Loreena Mckennitt’s version, and it has been haunting me since. Yet, I found no translation of it in French, nor of any of Noyes’ writings. Should someone know, would they be kind enough to share their knowledge? I do apologize for my English and for all the mistakes that text must be filled with
Thierry · 17 January 2003
I discoved that poem last week, thanks to Loreena Mckennitt’s version, and it has been haunting me since. Yet, I found no translation in French, nor of any of Noyes’ writings. Should someone know more about it, can they help me? I do apologize for my English and for all the mistakes this text must be filled with.
Brommersinc · 25 January 2003
this is a brill poem
BLOM · 14 February 2003
Oh my gosh this is poem is awsome. I was looking through my Loreena McKennitt (Book of Secrets) Cd cover with the lyrics. It said the peom was slightly redone. I love the song and the poem. My classmates would probably disagree with me, But I think that we should be reading more poetry in the ninth grade then we do. I mean when else? Also if you like the peom, check out Loreena McKennitt’s CD the book of secrets. My other favorite song on it is Dante’s Prayer, inspired by the Divine Comedy by Dante. If anyone gets a hold of piano or a c keyed instrument music for either or any of the songs, please e-mail me ASAP at . Thank you sooo much. Also, of her other Cd’s they are wonderful. She also puts the lyrical writ of the Lady of Shallot into music. It is truely captivating.
BLOM · 15 February 2003
have you recieved any information on the clothing worn or what the houses were like in the time period of the Highwayman? I am also doing a painting, but do not know what exactly to do. If you could help me, please. E-mail me back at please. Thank you so much.
Always
Jacquie
Mark Wowk · 15 February 2003
Hi
Just wondering if someone could please tell me where to find the illustrations by Charles Causley based on ‘The Highwayman’ by Alfred Noyes? Any help would be much appreciated, as I haven’t yet been able to locate a suitable website.
Thanks in advance!
Mark
Mark Wowk · 15 February 2003
Does anyone know where to find the illustration(s) by Charles Causley based on The Highwayman? It was mentioned by Jane near the top of this comments page, but after much web-searching (not by the moonlight), I cannot find any illustrations by CC. A pointer (URL) in the right direction would be much appreciated.
Mark
Consuelo · 22 February 2003
I am reading the comments about The Highwayman. Did you correct your daughter when she said the Highwayman and Bess were together in heaven? The Highwayman was a thief. Are we told anywhere that Bess is a Christian believer? If not, neither Bess, nor the Highwayman were in heaven. (Hypothetically and poetically speaking.)
Kami0714 · 22 February 2003
This poem is amazing!!!I just love it so much…
Consuelo · 22 February 2003
My mother had me memorize this poem when I was in the sixth grade. I remember with amusement how one of the boys snickered when I said the word “breast”. There are a number of versions around that seem to be inaccurate. I loved it then as I do now. I love that the poet used “colors” so much throughout. It’s really dramatic. BUT…the fact is the Highwayman was a criminal, a thief. The poet made a hero of a thief. What if a current poem were to be written about a man who drives around robbing motorists? What would the poet say about the crook’s girlfriend whose dad owns a Ramada Inn?
Melissa · 10 March 2003
This is truely a great poem. I have never read it until today. I’m suprised that I never heard of it before. My 8th grade teacher told me to look it up for our online forum.
Melissa;)
Emily Arthur · 11 March 2003
I’m not a big fan of poetry, but after I read this one I fell in love with it. I first read it in 7th grade. Thanks for posting it online!! It is very moving and lovely, and the story is awesome too.
Tailgunner62 · 11 March 2003
I read this poem in high school and loved it a lot. I also saw the 1951 version of the movie when I was about 11 years of age. The memory of the poem and the movie will alway`s remain in my heart. I am now 62 years old and never has any other piece of literature had such an impression on me as “The Highwayman” has.
Vas303 · 13 March 2003
yeah you’re right it should be ….”among the gusty trees.” you have a good eye!
lugina · 17 March 2003
i believe there are 102 lines instead of 103
Melanie Perkins · 2 April 2003
I first read this poem as a sixth grader in San Diego, California. I was in my own reading group, and had to find my own literature to read, as the basal reader was too easy for me. I took on the challenge of memorizing the whole poem, and recited it for my class. That was back in 1965, and I can still recite most of it.
I am teaching a poetry writing class to fourth through sixth graders this summer, and can’t wait to share this poem with them as a wonderful example of a balad. Yet another generation will be thrilled by Alfred Noyes words.
Ash K · 19 April 2003
I am in middle school and read it last semester. I took on the task of memorizing it last month and now have down pretty well and am reciting it in front of seven grades. I feel rather young with all of you saying how you memorized it in 7th grade, when I am a seventh grader. Luckily, I had the song to help me memorize it. The only thing is that she also leaves out the part “The tip of one finger touched it- she strove no more for the rest. Up, she stood up to attention, with the barrel beneath her breast. She would not risk them hearing- she would not strive again. For the road lay blank in the moonlight- blank and bare in the moonlight. And the blood in her veins in the moonlight, throbbed for her love’s refrain.”
Wandy and Geoff Leake · 29 April 2003
Hi,
Don’t know how many versions of this e-mail you might get. I had almost finished it when it suddenly disappeared I know not where.
The clues as to time setting come from the fashions. Highwaymen had their romantic heyday during the 18th century. There is a stunning version of the poem printed by Oxford University Press 1981 ISBN 0-19- 279748 4. It is illustrated by Charles Keeping. The book is more illustrations than words. He dresss them late 18th century.
He’d a French cocked hat on his forehead (a la Napoleon) a bunch of lace at his chin (jabot) A coat of claret velvet (velvet rarely worn as day wear after 1800) and breeches of fine doe skin. They fitted with never a wrinkle (skin tight knee breeches were replaced by close fitting long trousers in the early 1800s). His boots were up to the thigh (fashionable for dandies late 1700s)
Hope this helps,
Wandy.
Wandy and Geoff Leake · 30 April 2003
Charles Causley was a poet not an illustrator. Other people illustrated his books. The illustrator of The Highwayman for which you are searching is probably Charles Keeping. Can’t find the illustrations on the net, but details of the book are given in previous e-mail and book lists on the net.
Manfred Joeres · 20 May 2003
What a treat to find his site on the web. Although my memory is always suspect now (I am 56), I believe that I first heard this wonderful poem in the first or second grade in Glendale, Oregon, unlike many of you who seem to have first heard this in the seventh grade. My teacher loved this work and read it to us aloud. I was instantly mesmerized by the rhythm of her voice– I could hear and see and feel the highwayman’s horse clip-clopping up to the inn door.
While this poem instilled my love of poetry at an early age–I haven’t actually read ‘The Highwayman’ for a good many years. I decided to look it up on the net today as part of an assignment for a neighborhood study group. We are sharing an overview of our lives with one another, broken into 7 year segments. My overriding sense of my first 7 years was the development of a lifelong love for reading–and I have always given credit to’The Highwayman’ for triggering the connection to poetry. Thank you for helping me to touch base with a wonderful part of my past. (PS–While I see that this message is connected to my husband’s name and email address, and unfortunately I cannot seem to correct it–I am Barbara Kimbrough Burke and can be located at )
garyaustin21 · 2 June 2003
Where might I find the illustrations of Causley? I have loved this poem since I was a child. Thank You. Best regards, Gary
PrepPrincess2788 · 7 June 2003
hi my name is crysta. i would absoluty love if you could send me some information on alfred noyes for and introduction on my interp. of the highwayman! THANKS a bunch!
CRYSTA CARTER
Gene · 27 June 2003
Basically, one who cleans out barns and tends to animals. Water and food. Gene
Thomas O'Shaughnessy · 7 August 2003
Although shorter than the full poem, the Phil Ochs version captures the best mood and spirit for this poem. The tremendously gifted Ochs always put heart and soul into his work and his renditions whether studio or live (Vancouver 1968) have left a life long imprint. Unfortunately the greatest of all folk singer warriors (yes greater than Dylan to the folk purest!) remains unknown to the masses…
Tom O’Shaughnessy
Dave Naramore · 7 August 2003
This poem always breaks my heart when I read it, and the ending gives me chills, but that’s why I like it. If you want to hear it in a version that will give you the shivers, I suggest that you listen to Loreena McKennitt’s musical version of the poem on her album “The Book of Secrets.” I’d also like to comment that Alfred Noyes’ poem “Sherwood” is also rather haunting, and I recommend it.
Gillian Milburn · 18 August 2003
Regarding your comment about the Highwayman poem (no idea when you published your query and probably hundreds of people have already told you..
An “ostler” is also known as “hostler” - a person who looks after horses
- especially in an inn.
Blessed be
Gillian Milburn
….and dance like no one is watching….
Saeed Akhter · 21 August 2003
If you want to enjoy the dramatic effect of the poem then plz. listen to Loreena singing Highway Man.
Saeed Akhter (PAKISTAN)
DBirds · 28 August 2003
This poem sends chills up my arms everytime I hear it. everone should read this poem!
T. Butler · 28 September 2003
Tom here. I have been using this poem as a teaching tool for many literary forms and skills. It is awesome and the kids really like it. I have developed teaching strategies for this poem.
DINGO ………..
[[[ No need to fear “MegaBITES” in Dingo’s Den! :-) ]]]
Alan Beeden · 5 October 2003
What happened there?…
Anyway, love the poem, pity about the mistakes… Elanor
RBRIEN719 · 7 October 2003
this poem speaks of something that truly happened in the past…in my past
Kate Reid · 3 November 2003
Hi,
I was interested to read that you had developed some teaching strategies for The Highwayman. I would love to introduce this poem to my grade five students, and was wondering if you would share some of your successful lessons?
Thanks a lot,
Kate.
Molly Jones · 6 November 2003
As far as the time period of this poem…I beleive it is in the American colonies during the Revolutionary war (The Red Coats mentioned would be the British soldiers. It would also be much more admirable that the hero of the poem is only considered a “Highwayman”, (one who robs on the public road, or lurks in the highway for the purpose of robbing-Webster’s 1828 Dictionary) to the British Soldiers. Hope this Helps!
Molly Jones · 6 November 2003
Hi! I also am teaching this poem to my fourth graders. I would love the teaching strategies that you developed if you are willing to share them. My mother read this poem to my as a child also, as many others have said, and I love it!!
Thanks! Molly
StarDustFary333 · 9 November 2003
Hi I am looking up the meaning of the poem The Highway Man, which is the best poem ever, and you seemed to know about it so I was wondering if you could help me or if you know of any websites that might help, thanks a bunch!
- Cleo
margomendoza · 14 November 2003
Hello,
I rehearsed this poem whn I was In second grade. I attended the Convent of Mercy In Strabane,Co Tyrone,Northern Ireland. This was my favorite off all and I recited this to my children when they were young. One day to my surprise my son recited It for me from his book. Thank you for sharing.
Cheers, Margo.
Tetrault Charles D · 16 November 2003
Charles D. Tetrault
Vinson & Elkins L.L.P.
1455 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W.
Washington]
Wini (2) · 24 November 2003
Your comment about wanting teaching strategies regarding the poem The Highwayman, interested me because it was used for just that when I was in the seventh grade. That was back in the early 1930’s. As I recall, Mrs. Mckechney used it to point out the descriptive way the author had of likening ordinary things to a more thought provoking and touching way. For example, the road being a ribbon of moonlight, etc. It may have been standard teaching for 7th grade in the City and County of San Francisco, CA at that time. If you have a way of inquiring about this , you might find something of what you are looking for.
deltabattery · 23 December 2003
I did not see that it was mentioned, but the folk singer, Phil Ochs, put this poem to song, and it is wonderful to hear. Ochs suffered from depression, and, sadly, took his own life. Most of the other songs he wrote are “protest” and anti-war songs. I am not a teacher, but it seems a great way to introduce the poem to students would be through the Phil Ochs rendition, which is very moving and dramatic. Nelson Strasser.
Belinda Chille · 6 January 2004
This poem has been a favourite of mine since elementary school days. I looked up the poem because my daughter will be taking poetry in school in the upcoming semester and is not enthusiastic about the subject. I hope this will encourage her a little. For the young girl hoping that Bess and the Highwayman ended up in heaven I applaud you. For the person who says differently, not for you to criticize. Also, there is a parody on this poem, a modern day paradox, don’t know the name, but would like to…if anyone knows the name of it, please email me.
Belinda Chille
Office Manager
Policing Services, Standards and Evaluations
Public Security Division
10th Floor John E. Brownlee Building
10365 97th Street
Edmonton AB T5J 3W7
Tel:Fax:
Lindsey Rizzi · 28 January 2004
I have been looking for a place to download the full song if The Highwayman from Lorena McKennitt. I love her other works such as The Lady of Shallot. Can you tell me where I might find the song online or send me the song yourself? Thanks so much.
Lindsey K. Rizzi
Bugdenb34 · 15 February 2004
Great poem, I read it as a child for the first time, a moving tale. I just found it here, have been wanting to share it with the one I love. Thank you.Bill
Cricket2633 · 24 February 2004
Derek, Amanda & Chuck, you’re all right! I don’t care for this version. I took “expression” for 2 yrs (ages 6&7) (1938-39) as did my 7 year OLDER sister who had to learn this poem. On my own I learned it because it fascinated me and I still remember it all to this day! It kinda came in handy when I was 16 (Miss Atlanta Teenage) and sent to Pittsburgh, PA to compete in the “Jr Miss America” contest which originally had no talent competition. The sponsors were changed at the last minute (after all the contestents had arrived) and a talent contest was added. Since it was the last minute and I had nothing else prepared – I recited “The Highwayman”. I love it still. Vara
bill & garland · 3 March 2004
I had the privilege and great pleasure of hearing Alfred Noyes recite The Highwayman when I was about the age of Bess, the landlord’s blackeyed daughter, and a student at Mount St. Mary’s College, Los Angeles, during World War II. It was magical and I’ve never forgotten, nor will I, the emotion that poem evoked as I waited, though happily not in vain, for the return from war of my sweetheart. Thank you for sharing this great poem with so many. Garland O’Rourke Parten
Spackman87 · 31 March 2004
hi
Alfred Noyes is my great , great uncle and im researching into him as im interested to know what his poetry involved. please if anyone can tell me anything. please reply.
Jo Unick · 19 April 2004
Actually, the poem reads “They bound a musket beside her/With the barrel beneath her breast.” So the gun is tied (as near as I can figure) to her side/front, so that the actual shot explodes upward and into her chest. Guns in those days weren’t exactly precise instrument, and usually used lead shot, which kind of splatters and expands as it hits the target, allowing it to destroy a large area.
-Lannon
Reply to:
“I know there are many errors in this poem, but one very fatal one is that in the poem above it is written that they tied her with the barrel to her breast.
Well, if they REALLY did that then it wouldnt of been her breast that blows up, but her jaw. I should of written “ with the MUZZLE to her chest”
- Amanda -“
John M Vidler · 12 May 2004
Hi
I think that The Highwayman is a beautiful, beautiful poem. The first time that I read it I almost cried. Thankyou so much for making it avaliable on the internet. Clare Vidler
Smallwood Sandra J · 12 May 2004
My name is Rebecca and I love “The highwayman” It is a very good poem and is a great love story.
If you have any good information on the author? Please send any information to and . Thank You!!!
Joe Mifsud · 20 May 2004
It’s such a beautiful poem I’m never tired of reading it! The first time I read it I was near to tears. And even the song of Loreena McKennitt it’s sooooooooo brilliant. I love it!
Joelle · 20 May 2004
It’s such a beautiful poem , I’m never tired of reading it! I was close to tears the first time I read it. And even the song of Loreena McKennitt it’s soooo nice.I love it!
MEL AND TRINETTE VILLORIA · 22 August 2004
This poem is pretty cool. I read it with my class when I was in seventh grade.
Nantahalafilm · 10 September 2004
Loved this poem for many, many years (up there with Tennyson’s “Charge of the Light Brigade”) in adventurous romanticism. The time period is the late 18th century. To get it right in research the King is George and that is George III . Puts it in an in-and-around-the American Revolution time context. And if you want to research the prototypical character here you want to research Dick Turpin and Claude Duval . Turpin supposedly had a horse called Black Bess that could outrun anything alive. This relates curiously to the concept of “Bess, the landlord’s black haired daughter”. What would we have here? A romantic who names his
beautiful horse after a beautiful woman? And Claude Duval, originally from France, was considered one of the handsomest, most romantic celebrities of the period (and a veritable
Don Juan in the budoirs of so many ladies about the countryside). Hard to imagine that neither Errol Flynn nor Tyrone Power ever did a Claude Duval movie. When he was finally hung, women came in droves to his funeral….all disconsolate beyond belief. I have always thought a tongue-in-cheek film, perhaps “The Legend of Claude Duval”, wherein the execution was faked and Duval rides again, would have been great fun.
In Noye’s poem the particular highwayman here is never named , though, as I have said, the irony of Turpin’s jet black filly being name Bess is an interesting one. In the 1951 movie “The Highwayman”, the hero was a nobleman who fought injustuce as “The Highwayman”, a night-riding Robin Hood-like avenger somewhat in the vein of the Scarlet Pimpernel. This film is rarely seen but I remember it as being quite good. Albert (“Darby O’Gill”) Sharpe was a cast member, I know. I have wanted to say Lewis Hayward was the main character but I have been told it was Charles Coburn. I remember it was in color and had some good horse pursuits in it…and the rousing theme and chase music was, of all things (if I recall correctly)
the “Gypsy Dance” from The Nutcracker!!!!!!
P R Dash · 4 October 2004
it is the loveliest poem i’ve ever read.i’m glad that i got hold of this two years after reading it.thanks a lot.
Greg Winter · 2 December 2004
A treasure lost then found.
I had read this poem so many years ago that I forgot who wrote it. But I’ve always remembered the line, “the moon was a ghostly galleon tossed upon cloudy seas” and always think of that when I see the moon among the clouds.
I’m pleased to have found the entire poem again so I can pass it on to my 7 year old who just now is beginning to really appreciate poetry.
Sue Witte · 8 January 2005
Yes, I saw this movie and I have been searching for it ever since on the web and cannot find it.
I saw an old black and white movie on TV and I swear it starred Stewart Granger as the highwayman. But I have searched the web for every Stewart Granger movie and cannot find it.
If you know of it, I would like to hear from you.
carol.dunning · 10 January 2005
I have just copied tis beautiful poem out for my 9 year old son who has to make a a wanted poster for the highwayman I’ m sure many of the other readers are parents and feel maybe that its hard to make a 9 year old apprecite the beauty of love. when my son came form school after hearing his teacher read it he seemed to have grown up.
Allen Newbury · 19 January 2005
I listened to this performed by Phil Ochs today on a CD and was brought to tears.
LISA STEPHEN · 27 January 2005
I was just wondering if you could help me on something. I have a homework assignment on The Highway man. I did Alfred Noyes Biography now i need some help on finding the culture, or the history of the setting. I’ve been looking and i can’t find a thing. If you could help me I would be very thankful. Thanks Kelsey
Jonel Brown · 30 January 2005
There is a painting for this poem which I have been searching for, try looking for that. He is at the in, rising up in his stirrups to kiss her black hair as she leans out the window. I will help you if you will help me.
Jonel Brown · 30 January 2005
By the way, it was during the time of King George ( easy to look up), allot of poor people around, allot of highwaymen, a revolution was just around the corner. Very bad times.
Jonel Brown · 30 January 2005
I’m interested too in the TV “The Highwayman”, did you ever get any answers? Also, there is a painting of the two - he stretched up on his stirrups & she leaning out the window with her hair in his hand.
littlebear · 25 February 2005
What is the name of the song and which CD is it on that Loreena McKennit recorded the poem. also, could help me with her webb site co I can find out about concerts.
Thanks,
David Three Bears
Andrea Thorn · 22 March 2005
Just got back into English highwaymen after a long time away. I had a brief memory of this poem and was very glad to find it here.
Made me cry though! What a bloody emotive, powerful text!
Andrea Thorn
[broken link] http://www.vicandbob.net
Vernon Peck · 23 March 2005
Jane!
Would really appreciate your assistance to locate the Charles Causley illustrations of The Highwayman by Alfred Noyes. Any ideas you could pass my way? Thank You!
Vernon Peck,
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Jo-Ski · 26 March 2005
Hello–
I love the poem “The Highwayman”!
I am wondering if anyone out there has the words to another poem by Alfred Noyes, called “Music and Memory”? I have purchased both volumes of Noyes’ Collected Poems, but cannot find it among them. He quoted part of this poem in his book The Unknown God, and it made me want to read everything this man had written.
Thank you for any help on this!
Jo
Blaine, WA
CAFENET · 29 March 2005
ES UN POEMA REALMENTE HERMOSO ES UNA LÀSTIMA QUE NO PUEDA SER TRADUCIDO CABALMENTE AL ESPAÑOL. PIENSO QUE REFLEJA TODA LA ÈPICA Y RPMANTICISMO DE UNA EPOCA. LA DESCRIPCION DE AMBIENTE, PERSONAS Y SITUACIONES ES SUBLIME. MUCHAS GRACIAS POR PERMITIRME COMPARTIRLO. HORACIO PARIS
Sandra Damen · 2 April 2005
i love this poem…the loreena mckennitt song almost word for word….i never realized there was a tim…hmmmmmmmmmm…thank you for showing this lovely piece of literature….
sandra damen
EarthLink Revolves Around You.
Barbara Houston · 29 April 2005
Kids Can Press has just released a new edition of this poem. The illustrations are quite different from the 1951 movie in which the highwayman was so gallant and the story was so romantic and the galleon moon was so ghostly. The new illustrations picture the highwayman on a motorcycle in a modern setting. I notice so many have said they read the poem first in 7th grade. I think 7th graders would love this new edition.
Barbara Houston
DAVID ROSE · 23 May 2005
As a poet myself. I am in awe of Alfred Noyes - the atmosphere and the almost palpable reality he creates in the Highwayman is a credit to his amazing talent. The line, ‘And the road was a ribbon of moonlight over the purple moor’ is a truly beautiful and visionary piece of writing. Darkness pervades both the poem and the song and it is beautifully tragic in it’s entirety. Haunting, like a wind blowing through your soul, this poem captures the very essence of love, of loss, of times which are no more. I cry when I hear the song - it moves me to my soul
oded · 23 May 2005
this poem is the BEST poem ever and I have written a play based on the poem.if anyone would care to see I can send it as an attachment.
Naomi farhi
Chambers Phillip · 15 June 2005
I’m trying to obtain a copy of the film starring Stewart Granger in the 1950`s can anybody HELP
cg63118 · 22 June 2005
This poem was great to read.It`s hard to find poems that are fun to read.The way the words are written just shows the story.We did this poem in class.Many didn`t enjoy it and took it for granted.I would read it anytime.It dose tell a sad story,but it has different meanings to it.Which makes it even more special.
dot.parka · 25 June 2005
The illustrator is Charles Keeping, I think.
YoYo Mama · 11 July 2005
I think this poem is not about robbery it about the Irish thing he was mad about O and yer stuff in the poem has some errs I tink. Why not learn to proofreed.
I think this poem is bad though cuz she kills herself that is bad in my book of poesy. Seh shoul not kill herself that is wrong. But it was written in 1907 before he became a Catholic so I bet he was a bit of a hedonist bady back then u know runnin about naked and waht not.
I think the teenision poem is maybe as sad leerena mkenner did a tLady of Shylott rendetion to music too. I recomend listening to it. I like poems too I write a lot of poesy email if you are as preety as the Lady of Shalot and you want to be my girlfriend and ill reed u poesy.
thanxxxxs
L8r
Patricia Howell · 4 August 2005
I don’t think the film version is available any longer. It was released in Australia in the late 90s and sold very quickly. Then dissapeared without a trace. I saw the film when it was released in 1951 and never saw it again for almost 50yrs. It stars Charles Coburn. The highwayman is played by Alfred Noyes and Bess was played by an actress called Wanda Hendrix. Contact me and see if we can get a copy made up for you. Best - Alan
Patricia Howell · 4 August 2005
The film ‘The Highwayman’ was made in 1951. It was in colour and stared Charles Coburn. The Highwayman was played by Alfred Noyes and Bess was played by an actress named Wanda Hendrix. From a Fan.
Alan
Patricia Howell · 4 August 2005
From Alan (Australia) - I read the poem many times in school. Then in 1951 a film version was released. I was thrilled to see the words come to life. Then, as in those days, it was gone! It was never shown on TV or released on video for nearly 5 decades until it popped up on video in the late 90s (in Australia). I think the film makers had many problems. As in the poem her hands were tied at the wrists. In the film she was tied around the waist and elbows attached to the bedpost so her hands were free to stretch onto the triger of the musket that was left by one of the guards. The film isn’t a masterpiece but underrated all the same. I wonder when a proper remake will turn up? From a fan of poem and film
Alan.
PS - The Highwayman was played by Alfred Noyes and Bess was played by an actress called Wanda Hendrix
Portshady · 15 September 2005
My brother and I committed this poem to memory in the early 60’s. I can still recite mosr of it. My brother is dead now, it gave me great pleasure to read it again in it’s entierty.
Martin Grant · 22 September 2005
The ballad of The Highwayman was also sung by a group called the Three D’s on LP album back the 1960’s
There was a laso a film in the 1950”s The Highwayman starring English actor Richard Todd in the 1950’s
Sharon Inger · 17 November 2005
We are in English class and we just read the poem and heard Phil Ochs sing it. The reading was better because it gave more detail and was easier to understand. The song left out many details, such as Tim the ostler.
Waldo and Mike
Even though the poem was long, we still enjoyed all the detail and how it was kinda scary. This is kinda weird because this is a high school English class. There’s seven of us. I’m Ethan. There are also Katie, Mike, Doug, Waldo, Sarah, and Jarred as well. We all like this poem very much.
We like the way the poem combined romance and people being killed. We listened to a song version which left out the stanza about Tim the ostler. Doug and Jarred.
Debi and Richard Todd · 21 November 2005
I read this poem in 7th grade and have loved it ever since ( I am now 50). When I first heard Lorena McKenna’s song I nearly fell over. I’m so glad to have others to share this with
Paulpolaris · 29 December 2005
I was 13yrs old when we read this poem at school during an English Literature lesson. I am 60 yrs old now. In between those ages, as one’s memories get swept along with the tidal debris of life, I forgot the gist of the poem. However, one line always stuck in my mind:
“The moon was a ghostly galleon tossed upon cloudy seas.” I was a police officer for 30yrs and whilst walking the beat on night shift, I would often stand in a doorway on a windswept night and look up at the beauty of the stars and the moon. That single line of poetry always came alive in my mind and served to enhance that cosmic beauty with the romance of the poem’s cellestial description.
I am retired now, but still wanted to share that magic which I experienced when I was 13 with young people today. Consequently, I set out to write a novel, which ultimately evolved into “The Wild Flower Triology.” Book I “Flowers of the Gods” was published this November. Book II “Children of the Stars” and Book III “A Bunch of Wild Flowers” are to be published early in the New Year. The Greek mythological goddess - Artemis (goddess of the moon) with many other gods and goddesses, and the beauty of the stars - as the hero and heroin travel through them in their adventures, all stem back to that one line of poetry.
It is amazing how the power of one poetic sentence can bring forth the inspiration for three novels!
Yours sincerely,
Paul Hayward
Grofler · 17 January 2006
omg i totally love this poem!!!
Craig Siegel · 10 April 2006
Hello Sitaram:
I am trying to reach Alan Howell regarding his comments on the Noyes poem, “The Highwayman”.
= = =
I am desperately trying to locate a copy of the 1951 film of The Highwayman. I heard somewhere that a university in Ohio has a copy of the script in their archives, but it is impossible for me to make a trip there from my home in Oregon.
Do you actually have a copy of the film? And, if so, is it possible for me to obtain a copy without violating copyright laws? I know that a lot of old films are now in the public domain and I’m hoping to locate a copy of this film. I need it for research on a similar story I am developing.
Thanks,
Craig
Roger & Cheryl Hofman · 11 April 2006
this is my favourite poem i luv u all guys luv me i luv u all go alfy noyey baby yeee
RICHARD TAYLOR · 13 April 2006
I think that ‘The Highwayman’ is a really good poem I started reading it at school because we’re doing report writing
on highwaymen I would recommend this poem for anyone because it’s a bit of everything e.g. it’s a bit gruesome.
i think Alfred Noyes is very clever because the pattern sequence is very hard to do I tried it myself and
it isn’t easy so thumbs up on The Highwayman’
M. H · 27 April 2006
Dear Teacher: I am a student teacher of English and know that this poem will spark interest in my students’ for poetry. Would you care to share your teaching strategies for this poem. I would be very grateful if you would share,
Sincerely,
Marilyn Howard
SMS Specialists · 24 June 2006
yes, it does say darkness.
best wishes Janet
SMS Specialists · 24 June 2006
Sorry, no information but this is my favourite poem aswell. My Mother used to recite it us when we were children. I cannot read this poem without crying. It is so nice to find someone that loves it as much as i do. My Mam made the whole class learn the poem word for word, they didn’t like that, but I got the benefit of it, she was only 9 at the time. Would like to hear from you soon
Best wishes
Janet Welters
Meryl Brew · 20 July 2006
Memories are made of this! Today, 21 July, 06 is World Poetry Day. I have just called my local radio station to vote The Highwayman as my favourite poem even though I have not read it for forty odd years. As a romantic fifteen year old attending Calder High School for Girls in Calderstones, Liverpool, England, The Highwayman captured my imagination and stoked the fuels of romantic yearning in my schoolgirl heart.
Wthout much jogging of my memory, the first three thrilling stanzas tripped effortlessly off my tongue - how about that for a sign of a great poet. Alfred Noyes lives!
Meryl Brew
Plimmerton
New Zealand
Rounds Andrea · 28 July 2006
I, too, like Celeste Bynum, became familiar with this poem through the World Book Encyclopedia my parents bought for us kids. I have heard The Three D’s sing a version of this poem which, although many stanzas are left out, gives me chills each time I hear it. I’m going to have to listen to the version by Phil Ochs and Lorena McKennit. I would love to see the movie some of you have written about.
Andrea Rounds
Docnorth0000 · 27 August 2006
Just reaching out. Read your comment posted on Minstrels. That is amazing how that one line from “The Highwayman” led you to write three books. I was also moved that you would recite the one line when you were a policeman.
Sincerely,
dallas
Raisa Carron · 5 September 2006
tis is da bst poem i eva red
Catherine Murray · 20 September 2006
September 20, 2006
I too love this poem and remember it from childhood, my mother reading it to us from a beautifully illustrated Childcraft book of Stories and Fairy Tales, I wish I still had that book, the images still haunt me, in a good way. I too love Lorena McKennit’s lovely interpretation of the poem.
Catherine, Glen Ellen California
Brent Kendall · 3 October 2006
OMG I LOVE THIS POEM IT IS THE BEST POEM I HAVE EVER READ!!!!!!!!!!!!! I LOVE ALL THE REPETITIONS AND THE IMAGERY THAT IS PUT INTO IT!! THAT KEEPT ME INTERESTED THROUGH THE WHOLE THING! AND THAT IS REALLY HARD TO DO IM USUALLY HALF ASLEEP BY THE TIME THAT IM @ THE THIRD STANZA SO I THINK THAT ITS A GREAT POEM!!!!! THIS POEM HAS INSPIRED ME, NOW I WANT TO START POETERY!!!!!!! SERIOUSLY LOVE ALWAYS HOLLISTER_HOTTIE
Thomas Ficker · 5 October 2006
You should check out the Andy Irvine version of this great poem. Listen to it. It’s really, really, really moving.
[broken link] http://www.andyirvine.com/lyrics/highwayman.html
Sharon Inger · 3 December 2006
Here are some comments from my English class in Hyannis, MA, US
We have enjoyed the poem itself much better than the song (Phil Ochs recording). The song left out many details from the poem. We like this poem so much because it is very sad, mysterious, and exciting to read. Ana and Alex
Although it is long, the poem can spook you in the right mood. The song version by Phil Ochs was well done, but he left out Tim the ostler who is essential to the plot because he rats out the lovers. Charlie and Keveney
The poem/ballad was a good scary love song that shows a moral of what some people would do for love.
McKenna and Billy
We like the singing better than the reading version of this poem. The singing is easier to understand, and it gives us a feeling of what the poem is like.
Bruno and Caroline
brittney&bradley jenson · 17 January 2007
we read this poem in class and i really love it its my favorite poem
Carol Lomas · 19 February 2007
I first read this poem at primary school at the age of 9 or 10. I loved it then and still keep a copy in my desk - I’m now 56. Rick Mayall read it for a BBC children’s dramatisation; it was fantastic. It’s one of the most emotionally charged poems you could find.
Carol Lomas
Chris Lull · 3 March 2007
Like many who’ve written, I first read this poem (and loved it) at a tender age. Imagine my surprise when our choral director handed it out, set to music by someone named Deems Taylor. As with the versions mentioned in previous comments, it omits Tim the ostler. It’s stirring, melodramatic music, well suited to the text! Any Highwayman fans likely to be in the Boston, Massachusetts area on May 6, 2007 should definitely check out our chorus’ website for ticket info! www.cantilena.org.
Chris Lull
Inga Frick · 11 March 2007
Is the Barbara, sister of Penny?
If so this is Inga, and I would so love to hear from you?
Craig Garone · 22 April 2007
Hello:
I am a high school English teacher and have been doing some research on Alfred Noyes’ poem, “The Highwayman.” I read one of the messages from “Patricia Howell”
<alanhowell @>. She offers if someone would like a copy of the movie version of “The Highwayman” ( with Charles Coburn and Wandra Hendrix) to contact her to see about getting a copy. I would really like to have one for my lesson.
Is it possible for you to contact her for me? I would really appreciate any help that you can give me. This movie is just not out there for purchase anymore.
Thank you in advance for your time and effort.
Nellie Garone
Carlin Hoffacker · 29 April 2007
if you like this poem, check out the song by Loreena McKennitt (which you might have already heard before.) I have been listening to it almost daily.
Pearce Shantelle · 30 April 2007
an ostler is some1 that looks after horses i will prob tlk 2 ya soon from shantelle at H.L.C yr 7
Debarupa De · 25 May 2007
I was first introduced to this poem when I was in 6th or 7th grade. It was a love at first read. Now, at 31, as I realize that all those days were the real golden days, I’ve started to collect as many things as I can to save that priceless period at least in my mind. I’ve been searching for this poem and found it on the net without much sweat. A real gem.
wacarpenter · 3 June 2007
I too saw the 1951 version of “The Highwayman”. I was young at the time, around 10 or 11, but the film made such an impression on me that I’ve never forgotten it or the poem. I have tried for years to get a copy of the film but to no avail. I would love to have a copy if you know where I can get it/order it/buy it/steal it. Unfortunately, e-mial addresses don’t completely print out on the web, so hopefully someone will forward this to you (alanhowell@).
Best Regards,
Bill
wacarpenter · 3 June 2007
Hi, yes, My first exposure to The Highwayman was also as a child in the Film the Highwayman (1951). The film (and poem) made a lasting impression upon me (even at the tender age of 11 or so). I have been searching for a Video or DVD of this movie for many years now, but come up dry. Did you ever receive an answer to your query? If so, could you share with me if the movie is available?
Regards,
Bill
Ajeer Pudiyapura · 10 August 2007
I had this poem as part of my 11th grade English Poetry back in India. At the age of 15, I fell in love with this poem. And today, another 15 years on, it still takes me back to the 15-year-old-in-love! What a timeless work of art!
MERCEDES BIRCH · 12 August 2007
A fantastic work which can inspire young children (10-11 years) to write as a one of the characters and learn about metaphor and imagery. They can then create art work based on the amazing monochrome award winning illustrations by Charles Keeping; OUP version reprint 1991 won the Kate Greenaway Medal.
Shelley Spencer · 28 September 2007
Does anyone have the parody of “The Highwayman” from Mad Magazine? It’s a hoot! I’m trying to find it.
Joe Daniels · 21 November 2007
This poem is fucked up! What the hell does it mean. What the hell was the author on when he wrote it? Crack? Um…I think so!
Gloria Little · 13 January 2008
As with many of your correspondents, my mother read this poem to me when I was a child. However, as much as I am delighted to find this treasure on your website, I am most disappointed that there are a few small mistakes in the text. As I cannot find Alfred Noyes’ poem on any other site, is there any chance that the text on your website could be corrected to the Noyes’ original? I’m sure all of us would be most appreciative.
Gloria
Australia
Matthews Mark · 17 February 2008
Surely surely one the best poems of all time!
I remember my yr 6 teacher Mr Salisbury reciting this to us and completely capturing my imagination.
…ah Bess the landlords daughter, eh?
But the date cannot be correct “ 22 Feb 1999” is that 1899?
Regards
Mark Matthews
DebbDev · 25 March 2008
We read this in my english class and this is the only poem i have ever liked in my hole intire life. I f i would never ever read this it would of never let me learn.
DEBORAH ADEY · 8 April 2008
am am 10 years old and have 2 do a piece of info about the highwayman i have got everything except the date and day any ideas plz help!!!