The Loyal Lover
The narrative centers on themes of love, longing, and devotion, expressed through the perspective of a lover waiting for their beloved's return from the sea. The protagonist weaves a garland adorned with flowers, symbolizing beauty and affection, which they intend to present upon the beloved's return. The repeated refrain emphasizes the mutual love shared between the two, reinforcing the emotional bond. The lover's yearning is depicted through vivid imagery and metaphors, illustrating a desire to transcend physical limitations. The wish to become an arrow or a fish signifies a longing to be closer to the beloved, showcasing the depth of their feelings. The lover's imagination runs wild with possibilities, reflecting the intensity of their emotions and the lengths they would go to reunite. As the narrative unfolds, the lover expresses a desire to be a reaper or a keeper, further emphasizing the connection to nature and the pastoral setting. The act of searching for the beloved in various forms highlights the theme of devotion and the lengths one will go to for love. The imagery of the green-wood tree serves as a romantic backdrop, symbolizing hope and the promise of reunion. Overall, the work encapsulates the essence of loyal love, portraying the emotional landscape of waiting, yearning, and the joy of anticipated reunion. The lyrical quality of the verses enhances the romantic atmosphere, making it a poignant exploration of love's enduring nature.
By Sabine Baring-Gould · First published 1902 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Folk · 294 words
First lines
C. J. S. [Music]
1. I'll weave my love a garland, It shall be dressed so fine; I'll set it round with roses, With lilies, pinks and thyme. And I'll present it to my love When he comes back from sea, For I love my love, and I love my love, Because my love loves me. Blow summer breeze, o'er the sea Bring my pretty love to me.
2. I wish I were an arrow, That sped into the air; To seek him as a sparrow, And if he was not there, Then quickly I'd become a fish To search the raging sea; For I love my love, and I love my love, Because my love loves me. Blow &c.
What this Textopian page supports
The Loyal Lover is listed on Textopian as a poem by Sabine Baring-Gould, dated 1902 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Sabine Baring-Gould
- Date: 1902 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romance, Folk, Lyric, Ballad
- Length: 294 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Loyal Lover by Sabine Baring-Gould
- 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 The Loyal Lover?
- How does this poem by Sabine Baring-Gould fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Well Met Well Met by Sabine Baring Gould
- A Maiden Sat A Weeping by Sabine Baring Gould
- The Queen Of Hearts by Sabine Baring Gould
- The Bonny Bird by Sabine Baring Gould
- The Sailors Farewell by Sabine Baring Gould
- The Hostess Daughter by Sabine Baring Gould
Genres
- Poetry — The work consists of lyrical verses expressing themes of love and longing.
- Romance — The central theme revolves around romantic love and devotion.
- Folk — The style and content reflect traditional folk elements and sentiments.
- Lyric — The personal expression of emotions aligns with the characteristics of lyric poetry.
Tags
romance · loyalty · love · longing · nature · sea · garland · flowers · yearning · metaphor · poetry · folk