At the Sign of the Lyre

"At the Sign of the Lyre" is a poetry collection by Austin Dobson, an English poet, critic, and biographer. Dobson was known for his elegant style, often inspired by his deep appreciation for the 18th century. He was a key figure in the English Parnassian movement, which revived intricate French verse forms like the triolet, rondeau, ballade, and villanelle. His poetry, including that in "At the Sign of the Lyre," is characterized by polish, wit, and restrained pathos. Dobson also wrote biographies and critical studies, focusing on 18th-century life and culture, aligning him with the later phase of the Aesthetic movement. The term "lyre" itself refers to an ancient Greek stringed instrument used to accompany song and recitation.12