The Gardener 36: Why Does He Not Come Back
The Gardener 36: Why Does He Not Come Back - meaning Summary
Resistance and Returning Love
The poem sketches a short scene of an insistent lover and a speaker who verbally rejects him while remaining physically affected. The suitor persists through whispered entreaties, intimate gestures, and a final gift, ignoring the speaker’s sharp rebukes. The speaker’s outward resistance contrasts with inward vulnerability, ending in tears and puzzled longing as she wonders why he does not return. It explores desire, restraint, and the complexity of emotional refusal.
Read Complete AnalysesHe whispered, "My love, raise your eyes." I sharply chid him, and said "Go!"; But he did not stir. He stood before me and held both my hands. I said, "Leave me!"; But he did not go. He brought his face near my ear. I glanced at him and said, "What a shame!"; But he did not move. His lips touched my cheek. I trembled and said, "You dare too much"; But he had no shame. He put a flower in my hair. I said, "It is useless!"; But he stood unmoved. He took the garland from my neck and went away. I weep and ask my heart, "Why does he not come back?"
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