Addressing a Lady That Desired Me to Love Her

Since you've bestowed me consent to love,
What shall you respond?
Am I to your joy, or passion arouse,
When I commence pursue;
Will you torment, or scorn, or adore me too?

Every minor charm can scorn, and I
In spite of your hate
Without your permission can observe, and die;
Grant a grander Fate!
It is effortless to ruin, you can form.

Therefore grant me consent to adore, & cherish me too
Lacking purpose
To elevate, as Love's cursed defiers do
While complaining Versifiers moan,
Acclaim to their grace, from their weeping eyes.

Sadness is a pond and shows not distinct
One's charm's beams;
Delights are clear currents, your gaze look
Morose in gloomier layes,
Within cheerfull lines they gleam luminous with praise.

Which shall not mention to portray you fair
Harms, fires, and shafts,
Storms in your forehead, snares in your hair,
Suborning all your parts,
Or to deceive, or torment trapped hearts.

I’ll make your vision like morning suns appear,
As gentle, and fayr;
One's brow as Crystall smooth, and clear,
Whereas your dishevelled hayr
May drift like a serene Area of the Ayr.

Abundant Nature's hoard (which is the Bard's Riches)
I shall expend, to dress
Thy charms, if your Mine of Pleasure
In equal thankfulness
One but unlock, so we one another bless.

Exploring the Poem's Themes

This work delves the interplay of affection and admiration, as the speaker engages with a woman who seeks his love. Conversely, he suggests a mutual exchange of literary tribute for personal pleasures. The phraseology is graceful, combining polished conventions with direct expressions of longing.

In the lines, the poet dismisses common tropes of unrequited affection, like grief and weeping, claiming they dim true beauty. He chooses delight and acclaim to showcase the maiden's attributes, promising to depict her vision as bright orbs and her hair as drifting breeze. The approach underscores a practical yet clever view on connections.

Significant Aspects of the Composition

  • Reciprocal Arrangement: The work revolves on a proposal of praise in trade for pleasure, highlighting equality between the individuals.
  • Rejection of Standard Themes: The speaker criticizes typical literary techniques like sorrow and similes of pain, choosing optimistic descriptions.
  • Poetic Skill: The application of diverse line measures and rhythm showcases the author's proficiency in composition, creating a fluid and engaging experience.
Rich Nature’s store (which is the Writer's Treasure)
I shall spend, to embellish
Thy charms, if your Mine of Pleasure
Through matching appreciation
You but unlock, so we each other bless.

The stanza summarizes the central deal, as the author vows to utilize his inventive talents to celebrate the woman, in exchange for her willingness. This language mixes devout overtones with physical yearnings, giving depth to the verse's theme.

Angela Johnson
Angela Johnson

Travel enthusiast and local expert sharing insights on Pompeii's top accommodations and hidden gems.