Edgar Allan Poe ELDORADO | Classic Poems Read Aloud | Great Poetry Readings

“Eldorado“ is a poem written by the American author Edgar Allan Poe (and quoted by James Caan in the John Wayne film that shares its name). It was first published in 1849, the same year Poe died. The poem is a short and cryptic piece that explores themes of the pursuit of an elusive and idealized goal. Here’s the full text of the poem: Gaily bedight, A gallant knight, In sunshine and in shadow, Had journeyed long, Singing a song, In search of Eldorado. But he grew old— This knight so bold— And o’er his heart a shadow Fell as he found No spot of ground That looked like Eldorado. And, as his strength Failed him at length, He met a pilgrim shadow— “Shadow,“ said he, “Where can it be— This land of Eldorado?“ “Over the Mountains Of the Moon, Down the Valley of the Shadow, Ride, boldly ride,“ The shade replied— “If you seek for Eldorado!“ “Eldorado“ is a narrative poem that tells the story of a gallant knight who embarks on a quest to find the legendary city of gold, Eldorado. Throughout his journey, the knight travels through both favorable and challenging conditions (“sunshine and shadow“) and sings songs of his pursuit. However, as he grows old and his strength wanes, he realizes that he has not found Eldorado and is becoming disillusioned. In his desperation, the knight encounters a “pilgrim shadow,“ who suggests that Eldorado is to be found “Over the Mountains of the Moon“ and in the “Valley of the Shadow.“ The shadow encourages the knight to continue his quest boldly, even though it appears to be an endless and elusive pursuit. The poem is often interpreted allegorically, with Eldorado symbolizing an ideal or a dream that is always just out of reach. The knight’s quest can be seen as a metaphor for the human desire for something unattainable, whether it be material wealth, fame, love, or some other aspiration. Despite the knight’s determination, he ultimately fails to find Eldorado, suggesting that the pursuit of certain ideals may be futile or lead to disillusionment. “Eldorado“ is a poignant exploration of the human condition and the enduring quest for something beyond one’s grasp, and it is one of Edgar Allan Poe’s lesser-known but thought-provoking works. Narrated by Jake Phillips:Music by: Standoff- Wastelander XL8DALIGVXORHC6J To hear The Cultured Bumpkin on Apple Podcasts: hear The Cultured Bumpkin on Spotify: To Support The Cultured Bumpkin, check out: For more literature themed content, check me out on TikTok: @jakephillips116?lang=enTo make a request, book me for a voiceover/or event, or just to say hi, email: jakephillips116@ Thank you for listening to this classical literature audio. Subscribe forclassic poetry readings, classic short stories audiobook , and classic short stories to read aloud, make sure you Subscribe to this channel and turn on your notifications! Thanks Again for listening!