Let Love Go, if Go she Will

Name: Let Love Go, if Go she Will
Author: Robert Louis Stevenson

The poem explores the transient nature of love and the resilience of the human spirit in its wake. It begins with the assertion that one should not cling to love if it chooses to depart, emphasizing the futility of trying to hold onto something that is meant to leave. The speaker reflects on the duality of love, acknowledging both its joys and its pains. Despite the heartache that may accompany love's departure, the poem suggests that the most valuable aspect of love remains with the individual—the ability to maintain a steadfast mind and a noble heart. This inner strength allows one to face life's challenges with dignity and purity, regardless of love's presence or absence. The imagery of nature is employed to illustrate the enduring qualities of love. Just as a tree remains after the summer has passed, so too does the essence of love linger within a person, even when the experience of love itself has faded. The poem concludes with a powerful affirmation that, like a dethroned king who retains his royal identity, a lover retains the capacity to love, regardless of their current emotional state. The enduring nature of love, therefore, is not solely tied to its physical manifestation but is rooted in the heart and mind of the individual.

By Robert Louis Stevenson · First published 1891 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Philosophical · 265 words

First lines

LET love go, if go she will.

Seek not, O fool, her wanton flight to stay.

Of all she gives and takes away The best remains behind her still.

The best remains behind; in vain Joy she may give and take again, Joy she may take and leave us pain, If yet she leave behind The constant mind To meet all fortunes nobly, to endure All things with a good heart, and still be pure, Still to be foremost in the foremost cause, And still be worthy of the love that was.

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Let Love Go, if Go she Will is listed on Textopian as a short story by Robert Louis Stevenson, dated 1891 CE.

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Work type: Short story
Author: Robert Louis Stevenson
Date: 1891 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Romanticism, Philosophical, Lyric, Narrative
Length: 265 words
Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs poetic devices, focusing on themes of love and loss.
Romanticism — The themes of love, emotional depth, and the exploration of human experience align with Romantic ideals.
Philosophical — The text reflects on the nature of love and existence, prompting contemplation of deeper meanings.
Lyric — The personal expression of feelings and emotions characterizes the lyrical style of the poem.