A Valentine by Thomas Nelson Page
The poem explores themes of love, longing, and devotion through the speaker's heartfelt plea to St. Valentine. The speaker expresses deep yearning for a beloved, emphasizing the significance of her affection as the ultimate treasure. The imagery of wealth, beauty, and nature illustrates the speaker's willingness to sacrifice all worldly possessions for the love of this woman. The speaker's desire is not merely for physical beauty or material wealth but for the emotional connection and reciprocation of love. The invocation of St. Valentine serves as a symbol of hope and guidance in matters of the heart, highlighting the spiritual aspect of romantic love. The poem captures the essence of romantic idealism, where love transcends materialism, and the beloved's heart becomes the most coveted prize. The speaker's devotion is unwavering, showcasing the intensity of his feelings and the depth of his commitment. The work ultimately reflects the universal experience of love's trials and the longing for mutual affection, making it a poignant exploration of romantic devotion.
By Thomas Nelson Page · First published 1902 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Literary Fiction · 124 words
First lines
My patron saint, St. Valentine, / Why dost thou leave me to repine, / Still supplicating at her shrine?
But bid her eyes to me incline, / I 'll ask no other sun to shine, / More rich than is Golconda's mine.
Range all that Woman, Song, or Wine / Can give; Wealth, Power, and Fame combine; / For her I 'd gladly all resign.
Take all the pearls are in the brine, / Sift heaven for stars, earth's flowers entwine, / But be her heart my Valentine.
What this Textopian page supports
A Valentine is listed on Textopian as a poem by Thomas Nelson Page, 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: Thomas Nelson Page
- Date: 1902 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romance, Literary Fiction, Religious, Lyric
- Length: 124 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
Good citation fit
- Work identity for A Valentine by Thomas Nelson Page
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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- Love Song by Thomas Nelson Page
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse and employs poetic devices, focusing on themes of love and devotion.
- Romance — The central theme revolves around romantic love and the longing for a beloved.
- Literary Fiction — The writing style is reflective and explores deeper emotional and philosophical themes.
- Religious — The reference to St. Valentine indicates a connection to religious themes and the celebration of love.
Tags
romance · love · Valentine's Day · Southern literature · 19th century · short story · relationships · courtship · sentimentality · family · tradition · nostalgia