An Acrostic
An Acrostic - form Summary
Acrostic Spells ELIZABETH
This brief poem is built as an acrostic: the initial letters of successive lines spell "ELIZABETH," addressing Elizabeth Barrett Browning. The concealed name structures the piece as a playful, intimate compliment that masks direct praise within classical allusions (Zantippe, Endymion) and a gentle rebuke about professing not to love. The form makes the poem both a private tribute and a clever display of poetic skill.
Read Complete AnalysesElizabeth it is in vain you say ‘Love not’ — thou sayest it in so sweet a way: In vain those words from thee or L. E. L. Zantippe’s talents had enforced so well: Ah! if that language from thy heart arise, Breathe it less gently forth — and veil thine eyes. Endymion, recollect, when Luna tried To cure his love — was cured of all beside — His folly — pride — and passion — for he died.
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