Ah me! when Shall I Marry me?

Name: Ah me! when Shall I Marry me?
Author: Oliver Goldsmith

The poem explores the speaker's inner turmoil regarding love and marriage. The speaker expresses frustration over the abundance of suitors who offer affection but lack sincerity. The initial lines convey a sense of longing and disappointment, as the speaker grapples with the idea of marrying someone who may not be genuine. The speaker resolves to maintain composure and not reveal their true feelings, suggesting a strategy of emotional self-protection. The notion that revealing passion can lead to vulnerability is emphasized, as the speaker warns against giving oneself entirely to someone unworthy. The poem reflects themes of love, deception, and the complexities of romantic relationships, highlighting the tension between desire and caution. As the poem progresses, the speaker contemplates the societal pressures surrounding marriage and the expectations placed on individuals to find a partner. The struggle between personal desires and external expectations becomes evident, illustrating the conflict between the heart's yearnings and the mind's rationality. The speaker's determination to remain guarded serves as a commentary on the nature of love, suggesting that true affection should be based on trust and authenticity rather than mere attraction. The poem ultimately raises questions about the nature of commitment and the risks involved in opening oneself up to love. In conclusion, the work encapsulates the speaker's journey through the complexities of love, the challenges of finding a trustworthy partner, and the importance of self-preservation in the face of romantic entanglements.

By Oliver Goldsmith · First published 1762 · Genre: Poetry, Romantic Literature, Satire · 99 words

First lines

AH me! when shall I marry me? Lovers are plenty; but fail to relieve me: He, fond youth, that could carry me, Offers to love, but means to deceive me.

But I will rally, and combat the ruiner: Not a look, not a smile shall my passion discover: She that gives all to the false one pursuing her, Makes but a penitent, loses a lover.

What this Textopian page supports

Ah me! when Shall I Marry me? is listed on Textopian as a poem by Oliver Goldsmith, dated 1762 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Poem
Author: Oliver Goldsmith
Date: 1762 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Romantic Literature, Satire, Lyric, Drama
Length: 99 words
Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for Ah me! when Shall I Marry me? by Oliver Goldsmith
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
Readability and classroom-planning context
Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph

Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering Ah me! when Shall I Marry me??
How does this poem by Oliver Goldsmith fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is written in verse and employs poetic devices, focusing on themes of love and longing.
Romantic Literature — The central theme revolves around love and the complexities of romantic relationships.
Satire — The poem critiques the nature of love and deception in romantic pursuits.
Lyric — The poem expresses personal emotions and thoughts related to love and marriage.