The poem describes a scene depicted on an ancient Greek urn, including figures of gods, maidens, and mythical events that are frozen in time. The poet addresses the urn, noting how through its imagery it can express a story more beautifully than words. He observes the figures, including a bold lover who will forever love but never obtain his love. The poem reflects on the urn's ability to remain unchanged while the world and generations pass away. It concludes that beauty and truth are all that really matter.