When We Two Parted - LORD BYRON

• When we two parted / in silence and tears


  Inclusive pronoun "we" contrasts with the separative verb "parted" which shows the difference between what their relationship used to be compared to what it is now. Furthermore, "silence and tears" is very emotive and conveys the emotional pain that Lord Byron may have been going through.
• Half broken-hearted / to sever for year


  The metaphor and emotive language highlights the emotional impact that the separation had on Lord Byron. "Half broken-hearted" suggests that Lord Byron feels incomplete and hurt by the parting. Additionally, "to sever for years" shows that the pain is long lasting and will continue to cause pain to him
• "Pale grew thy cheek and cold, / colder thy kiss"


  Imagery of the cheek and kissing combined with repetition illustrates both the physical and emotion disconnection from his partner. The use of "pale" and "cold" both have connotations of death which could show that their relationship has died and is no longer. They also show the loss of warmth which is symbolic of his loss of his partner.
• "The dew of the morning / Sunk chill on my brow"


  The pathetic fallacy of "dew" creates a gloomy tone and perhaps foreshadows the ending of the relationship. The metaphor of "sunk chill on my brow" shows that Lord Byron is upset and could feel it coming and could also suggest a physical feeling of emotional coldness and grief. Additionally "dew of the morning" could show that the sadness is still fresh in his memory and he hasn't finished grieving
• "They know not I knew thee, who knew thee too well"


  The repetition and the contrast emphasizes Lord Byron's deep knowledge of the other person. The phrase "knew thee too well" shows that he knew more about her and loved her too much. The hidden nature of their relationship is highlighted when he says "they know not i knew thee" (they referring to anyone else apart from them as no-one was aware of their relationship)