A Chaucerian Paraphrase Of Horace

This poem, written in Middle English, employs a narrative style and subtly humorous tone to explore themes of maturation, romantic love, and societal expectations. The central character, Chloe, is portrayed as a young woman clinging to her mother, causing frustration among her suitors. The poet uses the metaphor of a 'lyttel deere' to reflect Chloe's innocence and timidity, hiding from 'lovers with theyre pityse chiding'. This naturalistic imagery creates a vivid picture of the social dynamics during this era.

The structure of the poem suggests a moralizing tone, advising Chloe to leave her mother and join the adult world. The poet humorously suggests that those who refuse to marry will 'leade an aype in Hadys', a vivid image conveying the societal pressure and religious undertone. The use of irony is evident in the line 'Your moder ben well enow so farre shee goeth, But that ben not farre enow, God knoweth', where the poet satirically comments on the limitations of a mother's guidance. The poem concludes with a promise of saintly afterlife for those who wed 'gode men', illustrating the society's sanctioning of marriage. This poem, thus, serves as a social commentary on the expectations of young women during the poet's time, using humor and ironic undertones to convey its message.