Author: Thomas Moore
When the first summer bee O'er the young rose shall hover, Then, like that gay rover, I'll come to thee. He to flowers, I to lips, full of sweets to the brim-- What a meeting, what a meeting for me and for him! When the first summer bee, etc. Then, to every bright tree In the garden he'll wander; While I, oh, much fonder, Will stay with thee. In search of new sweetness thro' thousands he'll run, While I find the sweetness of thousands in one. Then, to every bright tree, etc.
Type of Poem: Rondeau
Date Written:
Date Published:
Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Publisher:
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Comments/Notes: The poem, in its enchanting lyricism, explores themes of love, devotion, and nature's charm. The speaker draws a vivid parallel between his own affectionate pursuit and that of a bee seeking nectar, using this comparison to highlight both the intensity and singularity of his love. The tone is light, passionate, and sincere, imbuing the poem with a sense of joyous anticipation.
Structurally, the poem employs repetition effectively to emphasize the speaker's anticipation of a summer rendezvous, thereby imbuing the poem with a rhythmic, song-like quality. The repetitive "When the first summer bee, etc." and "Then, to every bright tree, etc." act like a refrain, creating a melodic flow. The use of metaphor is also a notable literary device in the poem, particularly the comparison between the poet and a bee, and the beloved and a garden of flowers. This metaphor is not only illustrative but also adds to the romantic overtones, suggesting the idea of the beloved as a source of sweetness, much like flowers to a bee. The poet also uses a clever antithesis in the lines "In search of new sweetness thro' thousands he'll run, While I find the sweetness of thousands in one." This not only contrasts the bee's fickle nature with the speaker's steadfast love but also underscores the beloved's unique attractiveness.