The Betrothed
The Betrothed - meaning Summary
Longing Sustained by Hope
The poem presents a speaker whose love governs his perception of day and night. He describes laboring and finding reward in evenings shared with his beloved, then facing the absence of her presence with longing. Night and dreams bring consolation and a sense of return to her threshold, while dawn renews hope. Ultimately the speaker accepts life’s conditions, valuing love as the measure of his days and rest.
Read Complete AnalysesAt midnight’s hour I slept, waking in my breast My love-filled heart, as though it were still day: Daylight came: to me, it still seemed night at best – What’s day to me, whatever gifts it makes? She’ll not be there! It was for her sake only, I worked and strived through all the fiery hoard Of burning hours: and then in the cool evening, Was so refreshed! That was my true reward. The sun set, twined together hand in hand We greeted the last sacred gleam of light, And eye with clear eye met, to understand: Hope, still: for from the East dawn rises bright. At midnight’s hour the shining stars direct me In sweet dream to the threshold where she lies. For me too may a resting-place be ready! Whatever it may be, it is good, this Life.
Feel free to be first to leave comment.