If I Could Bribe Them by a Rose
poem 179
If I Could Bribe Them by a Rose - meaning Summary
Pleading for Belonging
The poem presents a speaker imagining lavish attempts to win someone's favor—offering flowers, music, and relentless devotion. It moves from grand gestures to an intimate plea, acknowledging fatigue yet clinging to hope that persistent entreaty might succeed. The tone mixes earnest longing with a slightly self-effacing awareness of social standing, ending on the tentative possibility that continued pleading could lead to acceptance or admission into a desired circle.
Read Complete AnalysesIf I could bribe them by a Rose I’d bring them every flower that grows From Amherst to Cashmere! I would not stop for night, or storm Or frost, or death, or anyone My business were so dear! If they would linger for a Bird My Tambourin were soonest heard Among the April Woods! Unwearied, all the summer long, Only to break in wilder song When Winter shook the boughs! What if they hear me! Who shall say That such an importunity May not at last avail? That, weary of this Beggar’s face They may not finally say, Yes To drive her from the Hall?
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