Love as it was in the Time of Louis XIV

Name: Love as it was in the Time of Louis XIV
Author: Madison Cawein

The work explores themes of love, betrayal, and the darker aspects of human desire set against the backdrop of the opulent yet treacherous court of Louis XIV. It begins with a passionate declaration of love, emphasizing its youthful folly and beauty, likening it to a blossoming rose. The speaker contemplates the fragility of love and life, hinting at the potential for tragedy. As the narrative unfolds, a sinister plot emerges involving a poison crafted by a notorious alchemist, Sainte Croix. The speaker, driven by desperation and jealousy, seeks to eliminate a rival, the Marquis, who threatens his romantic pursuit. The alchemist's laboratory becomes a setting of dark intrigue, where the speaker witnesses the meticulous preparation of a deadly powder. The speaker's internal conflict is palpable as he grapples with the morality of his intentions. He observes the alchemist's cold efficiency and contemplates the implications of his actions. The narrative builds tension as the speaker ultimately decides to test the poison, leading to a fatal outcome for the Marquis. The climax reveals the speaker's triumph, but it is tinged with a sense of foreboding. The act of sealing the poisoned letter signifies both possession and the irreversible nature of his choice. The work concludes with a reflection on the consequences of love intertwined with death, leaving the reader to ponder the true cost of desire and the lengths one will go to secure it. The interplay of beauty and horror encapsulates the essence of love in a world where passion can lead to destruction.

By Madison Cawein · First published 1903 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Historical Fiction · 1,002 words

First lines

I. Thrice on the lips and twice on the eyes I kiss you or ever I kiss your bosom. -- When love is young would you have it wise, Wise as the world goes? -- No! 'tis a blossom Lovely and wise since it's lovely; content To live or to die as its folly pleases: Life is a rose and the rose's scent Is love, that grows as the rose increases.

What this Textopian page supports

Love as it was in the Time of Louis XIV is listed on Textopian as a poem by Madison Cawein, dated 1903 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Madison Cawein
Date: 1903 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Romanticism, Historical Fiction, Drama, Tragedy
Length: 1,002 words
Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
Romanticism — Themes of love, passion, and emotional depth are central to the narrative.
Historical Fiction — Set during the time of Louis XIV, it incorporates historical elements and figures.
Drama — The poem presents a dramatic narrative involving conflict and tension.