Ne Sit Ancillæ Tibi Amor Pudor

Name: Ne Sit Ancillæ Tibi Amor Pudor
Author: Robert Louis Stevenson

The poem explores themes of desire, attraction, and the tension between social propriety and personal longing. The speaker expresses a fascination with a housemaid, admiring her beauty and grace while grappling with the constraints of their respective social roles. The imagery of the maid's cap symbolizes both her charm and the barriers that separate them. The speaker's observations reveal a mix of admiration and yearning, as he notes her nervous laughter and the way she carries herself. He feels a strong impulse to bridge the gap between them, wishing to express his feelings but constrained by societal expectations. The poem captures the delicate balance of romantic tension, highlighting the interplay of shyness and boldness in the pursuit of love. As the speaker reflects on his feelings, he acknowledges the strict reserve imposed by their positions, yet he finds moments of connection, such as accidental touches and exchanged glances. These fleeting interactions intensify his desire, illustrating the complexity of unspoken emotions. The poem ultimately conveys a sense of longing and the bittersweet nature of love that is both desired and unattainable, encapsulating the essence of romantic yearning within a framework of social decorum.

By Robert Louis Stevenson · First published 1885 · Genre: Poetry, Romantic, Lyric · 228 words

First lines

THERE'S just a twinkle in your eye That seems to say I _might_, if I Were only bold enough to try An arm about your waist.

I hear, too, as you come and go, That pretty nervous laugh, you know; And then your cap is always so Coquettishly displaced.

Your cap! the word's profanely said.

That little top-knot, white and red, That quaintly crowns your graceful head, No bigger than a flower, Is set with such a witching art, Is so provocatively smart, I'd like to wear it on my heart, An order for an hour!

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Ne Sit Ancillæ Tibi Amor Pudor is listed on Textopian as a poem by Robert Louis Stevenson, dated 1885 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Robert Louis Stevenson
Date: 1885 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Romantic, Lyric, Narrative, Victorian
Length: 228 words
Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
Romantic — The themes of love, desire, and admiration for beauty are central to the text.
Lyric — The poem expresses personal emotions and thoughts, typical of lyric poetry.
Narrative — The poem tells a story of unrequited love and longing, which is a narrative element.