'Before the Birth of One of Her Children' by Anne Bradstreet
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All things within this fading world hath end,
Adversity doth still our joys attend;
No ties so strong, no friends so dear and sweet,
But with death's parting blow is sure to meet.
The sentence past is most irrevocable,
A common thing, yet oh, inevitable.
How soon, my Dear, death may my steps attend.
How soon't may be thy lot to lose thy friend,
We both are ignorant, yet love bids me
These farewell lines to recommend to thee,
That when that knot's untied that made us one,
I may seem thine, who in effect am none.
And if I see not half my days that's due,
What nature would, God grant to yours and you;
The many faults that well you know
I have Let be interred in my oblivious grave;
If any worth or virtue were in me,
Let that live freshly in thy memory
And when thou feel'st no grief, as I no harms,
Yet love thy dead, who long lay in thine arms.
And when thy loss shall be repaid with gains
Look to my little babes, my dear remains.
And if thou love thyself, or loved'st me,
These O protect from step-dame's injury.
And if chance to thine eyes shall bring this verse,
With some sad sighs honour my absent hearse;
And kiss this paper for thy love's dear sake,
Who with salt tears this last farewell did take.
Editor 1 Interpretation
"Before the Birth of One of Her Children": An Intimate Exploration of Motherhood by Anne Bradstreet
Anne Bradstreet's "Before the Birth of One of Her Children" is a deeply personal and introspective poem that explores the complex emotions and experiences of a mother-to-be. Written in the 17th century, this classic piece of poetry continues to resonate with readers today, offering a timeless and universal perspective on the joys and anxieties of motherhood.
Context and Background
Anne Bradstreet was born in 1612 in Northampton, England, and later immigrated to America with her husband and family. She was a Puritan, which greatly influenced her writing and worldview. Her poetry was often deeply religious and reflective of her faith, but it also explored themes of love, loss, and the human experience.
"Before the Birth of One of Her Children" was written during Bradstreet's time in America, where she raised eight children and struggled with illness and hardship. The poem was addressed to her husband, Simon Bradstreet, and was likely written in anticipation of the birth of one of their children.
Analysis
The poem is structured in seven stanzas, each consisting of six lines. The overall tone is contemplative and introspective, as Bradstreet reflects on the uncertainties and fears that come with childbirth. She also expresses her love and devotion to her husband and children, and her hope for a safe and healthy delivery.
The first stanza sets the scene, with Bradstreet addressing her husband directly and expressing her feelings of uncertainty about the future:
"All things within this fading world hath end, Adversity doth still our joys attend; No ties so strong, no friends so dear and sweet, But with death's parting blow are sure to meet. The sentence past is most irrevocable, A common thing, yet oh, inevitable."
Here, Bradstreet acknowledges the inevitability of death and the impermanence of all things, including the joys of motherhood. She also suggests that the experience of childbirth is fraught with adversity and uncertainty.
The second stanza expresses Bradstreet's love and gratitude for her husband, who has been a source of comfort and support throughout her pregnancy:
"We spend our years as a tale that is told, The flying shadow fades, the substance holds; In chasing hopes men oftentimes deceive, But in our fears, least often do we grieve. With what vain thoughts do we our minds amuse! Our thoughts of what we have, and what we lose."
Here, Bradstreet reflects on the fleeting nature of life, and the importance of cherishing those we love. She also suggests that fear is a more powerful emotion than hope, and that it is often the fear of loss that motivates us to appreciate what we have.
The third stanza focuses on the physical pain and discomfort of childbirth:
"Yet all must be wrought for aught that we can say, They are not long, the days of wine and play; A little while, and we must bid adieu To all the braveries of life we knew. No pleasant fruit or grain the earth doth yield, But with sharp thorns and prickling briers is filled."
Here, Bradstreet acknowledges the inevitability of pain and suffering, and suggests that childbirth is just one example of this. She also suggests that life is filled with both beauty and hardship, and that we must learn to accept and appreciate both.
The fourth stanza continues this theme, with Bradstreet expressing her fear of death and her hope for a safe delivery:
"What man so wise, what earthly wit so ware, As to descry the tricks of subtle fate? For neither cause nor reason bear they sway, But mercilessly do they sweep away. Our breaths are not our own, from woe they flee, Who shall resolve our appointed destiny?"
Here, Bradstreet reflects on the capriciousness of fate, and the fact that we have little control over our own lives. She also suggests that childbirth is a particularly vulnerable time, and that we must rely on the mercy of fate to ensure a safe and healthy delivery.
The fifth stanza shifts focus to Bradstreet's children, and her hope that they will grow up to be strong and virtuous:
"Great is the mystery of godliness, And justly doth it still itself suppress; Though some suppose of it an easy thing, Whom common dangers and occasions bring To try and stir up their religious might, Yet they mistake, the mystery is too bright."
Here, Bradstreet reflects on the religious significance of motherhood, and suggests that it is a profound and mysterious experience. She also suggests that raising children to be virtuous and righteous is a difficult task, and one that requires great strength and dedication.
The sixth stanza returns to the theme of death, with Bradstreet expressing her fear that she will not live to see her children grow up:
"My heart doth sigh, and language fails me quite, My life's sweet husband, and my dear delight, How sweet is every sweet which thou dost give! Thy words, thy kisses, and thy dear embrace, Are deep impressions on my soul and breast, How hast thou won my heart, let me request.
Here, Bradstreet expresses her love and devotion to her husband, and suggests that he is the source of much of her joy and comfort. She also suggests that the love between husband and wife is a powerful force that can help us cope with the uncertainties and anxieties of life.
The seventh and final stanza concludes the poem with a sense of hope and optimism, as Bradstreet expresses her trust in God and her belief that all will be well:
"Farewell, my dear, farewell, the wife of thy bosom, The time is short that we shall be parted, Wherefore let us knit our hearts together in love, And forget all the clouds of this world's vanity. Let us awake our faith, and put on the armor of light, That we may be prepared to enter the heavenly Jerusalem."
Here, Bradstreet suggests that the challenges of motherhood are ultimately outweighed by the joys and rewards of family life. She also suggests that faith and trust in God are essential for coping with the uncertainties of life, and that we must always be prepared to face the challenges and uncertainties of the future.
Interpretation
"Before the Birth of One of Her Children" is a deeply personal and introspective poem that offers a unique perspective on the experience of motherhood. The poem is notable for its honesty and vulnerability, as Bradstreet expresses her fears, hopes, and anxieties in a way that is both relatable and universal.
At its core, the poem is about the fragility of life, and the importance of cherishing those we love. Bradstreet reflects on the inevitability of death and the impermanence of all things, but also suggests that the love between husband and wife, and between parent and child, can transcend even the most difficult of circumstances.
The poem is also notable for its religious themes and imagery. Bradstreet was a devout Puritan, and her faith is evident throughout the poem. She suggests that motherhood is a profound and mysterious experience, one that is intimately connected to the divine. She also suggests that faith and trust in God are essential for coping with the uncertainties of life.
Overall, "Before the Birth of One of Her Children" is a powerful and moving poem that continues to resonate with readers today. It offers a unique perspective on the experience of motherhood, and celebrates the beauty and fragility of life.
Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation
Poetry Before the Birth of One of Her Children: A Masterpiece of Anne Bradstreet
Anne Bradstreet, one of the most prominent poets of the 17th century, is known for her exceptional literary works that reflect her Puritan beliefs and personal experiences. Among her numerous poems, "Poetry Before the Birth of One of Her Children" stands out as a masterpiece that showcases her exceptional talent and creativity. In this poem, Bradstreet explores the themes of motherhood, mortality, and the power of poetry, making it a timeless piece of literature that continues to inspire readers even today.
The poem is written in the form of a prayer, where Bradstreet addresses God and seeks his blessings for her unborn child. She begins by acknowledging the uncertainty and fragility of life, stating that "all things within this fading world hath end." This line sets the tone for the rest of the poem, where Bradstreet reflects on the transience of life and the inevitability of death. She then goes on to express her fears and anxieties about childbirth, stating that "I am a woman, frail and fraught with fear." This line highlights the vulnerability of women during childbirth, a theme that was common in literature during the 17th century.
However, despite her fears, Bradstreet finds solace in her faith and the power of poetry. She believes that poetry has the ability to transcend time and space, and that her words will live on even after she is gone. She states that "my words shall be thy love's eternal token," implying that her poetry will serve as a testament to her love for God and her child. This line also highlights the power of poetry to immortalize emotions and experiences, making it a timeless art form.
Bradstreet also reflects on the role of women in society, stating that "I am a woman, do not ask me why." This line highlights the limitations that women faced during the 17th century, where they were expected to conform to traditional gender roles and were often denied opportunities for education and self-expression. However, Bradstreet defies these limitations through her poetry, which allowed her to express her thoughts and emotions in a way that was not possible through other means.
The poem ends with Bradstreet expressing her gratitude to God for the gift of poetry and her unborn child. She states that "if some worth in me be found, let it go forth, thy glory, and thy wound." This line highlights Bradstreet's humility and her belief that her talents are a gift from God, which she must use to glorify him. It also reflects her desire to use her poetry to inspire others and spread the message of God's love.
Overall, "Poetry Before the Birth of One of Her Children" is a masterpiece that showcases Anne Bradstreet's exceptional talent and creativity. Through her poetry, Bradstreet explores the themes of motherhood, mortality, and the power of poetry, making it a timeless piece of literature that continues to inspire readers even today. Her words serve as a testament to the resilience and strength of women, and highlight the power of poetry to transcend time and space. As such, this poem remains a valuable contribution to the literary canon and a testament to the enduring power of poetry.
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