Epithalamium - Forever More
Epithalamium
Originally, the epithalamium was a Greek song, sung by boys and/or girls at the door of the nuptial chamber and consisted of hopes and blessings of happiness for the bride and groom.
The word “epithalamium” comes from “epi”, meaning "upon" or "of", and “thalamium” which is a bridal chamber. The word “epithalamios” means “of a wedding”.
The epithalamium, or epithalamion as it is sometimes known as, is now a popular poetic form and the most famous example is Edmund Spenser’s “Epithalamium” which he wrote in honour of his marriage in 1594.
This form of poetry has no set requirements regarding lines, stanzas, syllables or rhyme. It need only be in honour of marriage, the bride, the groom, the wedding night and/or the wedding ceremony.
Epithalamium example:
Forever More
The earrings that she wore were old,
her snowy gown, brand new.
Her borrowed pendant, gleaming gold,
her hidden garter, blue.
May all the love that she can hold
forever more be true.
The groom could not hold back his grin.
His shoulders, strong and wide,
his eyes, reflecting joy within,
saw no one but his bride.
May love for her make his head spin,
forever more, with pride.
To one another and to God
they pledge their vows this day.
May all the love they hold right now,
hold fast and always stay.
May they be blessed with happiness,
forever more, we pray.
