For a Lady Who Wished Me to Love Her

Now you have freely given me leave to love,
What shall you do?
Am I to your delight, or passion stir,
When I start to pursue;
Shall you torment, or scorn, or love me too?

Each petty grace can scorn, and I
Despite your dislike
Absent your leave can perceive, and die;
Bestow a loftier Lot!
It's simple to destroy, you can form.

Thus give me leave to love, & adore me too
Lacking purpose
To uplift, as Love's damned insurgents act
As puling Poets moan,
Fame to their charm, from their weeping eyne.

Sorrow is a pool and shows not distinct
Thy charm's lights;
Joys are clear streames, your vision look
Sullen in sadder layes,
In joyful lines they gleam brilliant with prayse.

Which will not allude to describe you fayr
Injuries, blazes, and darts,
Gales in your forehead, snares in your locks,
Suborning all your attributes,
Or to betray, or torment captive souls.

I shall cause your vision like morning orbs look,
Just as soft, and fayr;
One's countenance as glass even, and clear,
Whereas your dishevelled hair
Shall drift like a calm Zone of the Ayr.

Wealthy Nature's treasury (which is the Bard's Wealth)
I shall spend, to embellish
Your beauties, if your Wellspring of Joy
With equall appreciation
You but open, so we mutually grace.

Delving into the Verse's Ideas

The composition explores the relationship of affection and acclaim, as the poet speaks to a lady who seeks his love. Rather, he suggests a reciprocal arrangement of literary tribute for intimate delights. The language is refined, blending polished conventions with frank statements of desire.

In the lines, the poet spurns common tropes of unrequited affection, like grief and lamentation, claiming they cloud true charm. He chooses happiness and praise to showcase the maiden's features, promising to portray her eyes as bright orbs and her tresses as drifting atmosphere. This method underscores a practical yet artful outlook on bonds.

Key Components of the Composition

  • Mutual Agreement: The work revolves on a offer of tribute in exchange for enjoyment, highlighting equality between the persons.
  • Rejection of Conventional Themes: The speaker criticizes typical literary tools like grief and imagery of suffering, favoring positive depictions.
  • Creative Skill: The employment of varied verse lengths and flow showcases the poet's expertise in verse, creating a smooth and engaging experience.
Abundant The natural world's store (which is the Poet’s Treasure)
I’l spend, to embellish
Thy beauties, if your Mine of Joy
In equal gratitude
One but unlock, so we one another grace.

This section encapsulates the core bargain, as the writer pledges to use his inventive talents to celebrate the woman, in return for her willingness. The language blends spiritual overtones with physical desires, providing profundity to the poem's message.

Samantha Clayton
Samantha Clayton

A passionate traveler and writer who has explored over 50 countries, sharing insights and stories to inspire wanderlust in others.