I Reign in Jeanie's Bosom
written in 1788
I Reign in Jeanie's Bosom - meaning Summary
Love as Sovereign Power
The speaker rejects worldly status, riches, and rival suitors and claims complete contentment in the beloved Jeanie’s affection. Naming figures like Louis and Geordie, he dismisses monarchs, oceans, and beggars alike as irrelevant compared with being "reign[ed] in Jeanie's bosom." The poem frames love as a sovereign authority: the beloved’s heart is both crown and throne, and the speaker willingly disowns external honors and temptations. Its tone is exuberant and possessive, presenting intimacy as the speaker’s chosen realm of power and identity.
Read Complete AnalysesLouis, what reck I by thee, Or Geordie on his ocean? Dyvor, beggar louns to me, I reign in Jeanie's bosom! Let her crown my love her law, And in her breast enthrone me, Kings and nations - swith awa'! Reif randies, I disown ye!
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