The poem presents a serene pastoral scene where a young girl tends to a snow-white lamb. The setting is tranquil, with dew falling and stars beginning to appear. The girl, Barbara Lewthwaite, is depicted as a beautiful child, kneeling to feed the lamb, which is tethered and alone. The speaker observes their interaction with delight, noting the bond between them. As the girl speaks to the lamb, she expresses concern for its restlessness, questioning what it seeks. She reassures the lamb of its comfort and safety, recalling how her father rescued it from the wild. The girl emphasizes the care she provides, including fresh water and warm milk, and envisions a future where the lamb will grow strong and become her playmate. Despite her reassurances, the lamb remains agitated, prompting the girl to ponder whether its restlessness stems from a longing for its mother or an instinctual desire for freedom. She reflects on the dangers of the mountain tops and the safety of their cottage nearby, urging the lamb to sleep and promising to return. The speaker, reflecting on the scene, finds himself resonating with the girl's song, feeling a connection to both her and the lamb. He acknowledges that the emotional weight of the song belongs more to the girl, as her heartfelt tone and expression deeply affect him. The poem captures themes of innocence, care, and the bond between humans and nature, illustrating the complexities of attachment and longing.
By William Wordsworth · First published 1798 · Genre: Lyric Poetry, Romanticism, Pastoral