"But of all themes that men approve
Methinks the most they be of Love."
The speaker of Sir Orfeo introduces the poem by speaking about common themes often found in poetry, saying that "some sang of bliss, some heaviness, and some of joy and gladsomeness." He argues that love is by far the most common and universal theme, and is spoken about by many poets. This is also true of this tale, as Sir Orfeo's heroic actions are motivated by love.
"So hearken, lordings, true and leal,
The tale of Orfeo's woe and weal."
Often at the beginning of Old English poetry, the speaker invites his audience to listen closely to the tale. This goes back to the old tradition of oral poetry, whereby poetry was spoken out loud rather than read. As such, we can see hints of the poem's form within the language of the poem.
"Now is Orfeo crowned once more, I wis,
With his lady and queen, Dame Heurodis,
And many a year they lived those two."
The poem ends on a happy note, as Orfeo and his Queen are rightfully restored to the throne. This is significant, as it represents the restoration of moral order after the king overcame the issues and obstacles presented to him in the poem. Overall, the poem shows that if one acts courageously, they can remedy a bad situation, as Orfeo did after his wife was kidnapped.
