Il Penseroso, poem written in 1631 by John Milton, published in his Poems (1645). It was written in rhymed octosyllabics and has a 10-line prelude. In contrast to its companion poem, “L’Allegro,” which celebrates mirth, the beauties of rural scenery, and urban vitality, “Il Penseroso” invokes the goddess Melancholy and describes the satisfactions of solitude, music, epic poetry, tragic drama, and the meditative life in general.
The short poem Il Penseroso (The Pensive Man) by John Milton was written probably in 1631 and published in his Poems (1645). It was written in rhymed, octosyllabic lines and has a ten-line prelude. In contrast to Milton’s companion poem L’Allegro, Il Penseroso invokes the goddess Melancholy and celebrates the satisfactions of peace, leisure, and contemplation.