The Phoenix and the Turtle Analysis

Stanza 1

Let the bird of loudest lay

On the sole Arabian tree

Herald sad and trumpet be,

To whose sound chaste wings obey.

Explanation: In the opening stanza of The Phoenix and the Turtle, the speaker introduces a “bird of loudest lay” to serve as a herald. The “bird of loudest lay” can be interpreted as a bird that sings the most powerfully and beautifully. This bird is tasked with announcing a significant event—a somber ceremony honoring the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove.

The phrase “on the sole Arabian tree” refers to a mythological tree found in the Arabian Desert, often linked to the Phoenix myth. The Phoenix was believed to nest in this tree, making it a significant symbol of resurrection and eternity. Here, the Phoenix is imagined as residing on this lone, sacred tree, emphasizing its unique and solitary nature.

The line “Herald sad and trumpet be” describes the bird’s role as both a herald and a trumpet, implying that the bird’s song will mark the beginning of the solemn ritual. The bird’s song acts as a call to gather for the mournful ceremony.

“To whose sound chaste wings obey” refers to other birds, characterized by their “chaste wings,” responding to the call of the herald. These birds, by their presence, highlight the theme of purity and fidelity, which are key aspects of the love shared by the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove.

Poetic Device

Personification: The bird is given a role beyond its natural abilities, being described as a “herald” and “trumpet,” both of which imply human characteristics like proclaiming or announcing. This personification gives the bird a ceremonial importance, enhancing the sense of a ritualistic event.

Metaphor: The “trumpet” is a metaphor for the bird’s song. It suggests that the bird’s song is not just any ordinary melody but a powerful, solemn call akin to a trumpet blast used in ceremonies or announcements, emphasizing the gravity of the event.

Symbolism: The “sole Arabian tree” serves as a symbol. It represents a unique, possibly sacred setting where this significant event takes place. It may symbolize rarity or exclusivity, setting the scene for something that is one-of-a-kind—much like the love between the Phoenix and the Turtle.

Stanza 2

But thou shrieking harbinger,

Foul precurrer of the fiend,

Augur of the fever’s end,

To this troop come thou not near.

Explanation: In this stanza, the speaker addresses a “shrieking harbinger,” a bird that is unwelcome at the funeral ceremony. The word “harbinger” refers to a forerunner or something that signals an approach, often associated with an ominous event. Here, the bird is described in negative terms, suggesting it brings ill news or forebodes something sinister.

The “foul precurrer of the fiend” further elaborates on this bird’s negative role. The term “foul” emphasizes its unpleasant nature, while “precurrer of the fiend” suggests that it is a harbinger of evil or misfortune. This imagery implies that this bird, unlike those who have gathered in honor of the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove, carries associations with darkness and negativity.

“Augur of the fever’s end” characterizes this bird as predicting the end of something—possibly death or a period of suffering. The word “fever” can symbolize an illness or a state of turmoil, while “end” refers to the termination of that state, possibly death. The overall tone here is one of rejection, as the bird is linked to decay or sickness.

The speaker commands, “To this troop come thou not near,” explicitly excluding this bird from the ceremony. The “troop” here refers to the other birds gathered for the funeral rites. The speaker wants to maintain the sanctity and purity of the occasion, and the presence of this bird, which represents death and evil, is seen as a threat to the solemn atmosphere of the memorial.

Poetic Device

Epithet: The use of descriptive phrases like “shrieking harbinger” and “foul precurrer of the fiend” are epithets that characterize the bird negatively. These epithets emphasize its unworthiness and its connection to something sinister, contributing to the contrast between noble creatures and unwelcome ones.

Irony: There is a sense of irony in the description of the bird as a “harbinger” and “precurrer,” roles typically meant to announce or lead others. In this case, however, the bird’s role is one of exclusion, and it is deliberately kept away from the funeral. This ironic twist underlines the sacred nature of the event, where only beings symbolizing purity and nobility are allowed, whereas harbingers of death are expressly forbidden.

Stanza 3

From this session interdict

Every fowl of tyrant wing,

Save the eagle, feather’d king;

Keep the obsequy so strict.

Explanation: In this stanza, the speaker commands that certain birds be excluded from the ceremony mourning the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove. The word “interdict” means to prohibit or ban. The speaker is excluding “every fowl of tyrant wing,” which refers to predatory birds known for their aggressive nature. These birds symbolize cruelty or tyranny, and their presence would disrupt the solemnity and sanctity of the occasion.

The line “Save the eagle, feather’d king” makes an exception for the eagle. The eagle is often considered a symbol of strength, nobility, and leadership. In this context, the eagle is seen as an appropriate participant in the ceremony, aligning with the high regard in which the Phoenix and Turtle Dove are held. The eagle’s presence adds to the dignity of the occasion, as it is the “feathered king” among birds.

The phrase “Keep the obsequy so strict” indicates that the mourning ritual must be carefully observed and that only certain participants are allowed. “Obsequy” refers to the funeral rites, and keeping them “so strict” suggests maintaining purity and order during the memorial for these idealized birds, emphasizing the solemn and sacred nature of the event.

Poetic Device

Symbolism: The eagle, described as the “feather’d king,” symbolizes nobility, leadership, and grandeur. Its inclusion as the only bird allowed to attend the ritual suggests that the mourning of the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove is a noble and exclusive event. Meanwhile, the exclusion of birds of a “tyrant wing” symbolizes the rejection of qualities like aggression, tyranny, and baseness. This use of symbolism helps to establish the solemn and virtuous tone of the ceremony

Stanza 4

Let the priest in surplice white,

That defunctive music can,

Be the death-divining swan,

Lest the requiem lack his right.

Explanation: In this stanza, the speaker calls for a priest, dressed in a white surplice (a ceremonial garment worn by clergy), to perform the funeral rites for the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove. The phrase “defunctive music” refers to music associated with death, such as a requiem or dirge, played as part of the funeral ceremony. The priest, capable of delivering “defunctive music,” serves an important role in guiding the ritual.

The speaker refers to the priest as a “death-divining swan.” In literature, swans are often associated with grace, purity, and the idea of a swan song, which is a beautiful final act or gesture before death. Here, the priest is likened to a swan, suggesting that he has an intimate understanding of death and can properly honor the deceased in this solemn moment.

The line “Lest the requiem lack his right” emphasizes the necessity of the priest’s presence to ensure that the funeral mass (requiem) is performed correctly, preserving the honor and dignity of the deceased Phoenix and Turtle Dove. Without the priest, the requiem would be incomplete, and the solemnity of the ceremony would be compromised.

Poetic Device

Symbolism: The “priest in surplice white” symbolizes purity, spirituality, and the sacredness of the funeral rite. The color white often represents purity and innocence, enhancing the idea that this ceremony is a sacred occasion meant to honor the idealized love of the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove. The “swan,” also a symbol of grace and beauty, adds to the dignified atmosphere of the ceremony.

Metaphor: The phrase “death-divining swan” serves as a metaphor, suggesting that the priest possesses qualities similar to those of a swan, which is often associated with transformation and the passage between life and death. This metaphor elevates the priest’s role from merely a religious figure to one who transcends the ordinary, capable of navigating the realms of life and death, thus enhancing the solemnity of the ritual.

Stanza 5

And thou treble-dated crow,

That thy sable gender mak’st

With the breath thou giv’st and tak’st,

‘Mongst our mourners shalt thou go.

Explanation: In this stanza, the speaker addresses a “treble-dated crow,” a crow described as having three ages or having lived through three distinct periods, suggesting it is ancient or experienced. Crows are often symbols of death or bad omens, and the phrase “treble-dated” emphasizes the crow’s long association with death and its witness to cycles of life and death.

The phrase “that thy sable gender mak’st” refers to the crow’s black color (“sable”) and perhaps its nature. This line, along with “with the breath thou giv’st and tak’st,” implies that the crow embodies life and death simultaneously—its presence is a reminder of mortality, reflecting its role in both giving and taking life, much like the natural cycle of death and rebirth.

The speaker then declares that the crow shall be among the mourners at the ceremony (“‘Mongst our mourners shalt thou go”). Although crows are traditionally seen as ominous, here the crow is allowed to participate in the mourning. This inclusion suggests an acknowledgment of the role death plays in life, allowing the crow to join the other birds in this solemn ceremony, though its status is not as elevated as the nobler birds like the eagle or the swan.

Poetic Device

Allusion: The term “treble-dated” may allude to the crow’s historical connection to significant events, particularly those relating to death or transformation. This reference enriches the symbolism of the crow as an observer of mortality, connecting it to broader themes of fate and the cyclical nature of life and death.

Contrast: There is a contrast between the crow and the other birds invited to the ceremony. While the previous stanzas emphasize noble birds like the eagle, the crow is depicted as a more sinister figure, embodying the darker aspects of death. This contrast underscores the strict selection of attendees at the funeral, reinforcing the idea that only the most noble and pure beings should honor the deceased.

Stanza 6

Here the anthem doth commence:

Love and constancy is dead;

Phoenix and the Turtle fled

In a mutual flame from hence.

Explanation: In this stanza, the speaker announces the beginning of the funeral anthem for the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove. The phrase “Here the anthem doth commence” marks the start of the formal mourning or tribute to the deceased pair. The lines “Love and constancy is dead” convey that their love, defined by unwavering fidelity, has ended with their passing. This stark statement underscores the profound sense of loss.

The line “Phoenix and the Turtle fled” suggests that both the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove have departed, possibly referring to their physical death or their transcendence from the earthly realm. The phrase “In a mutual flame from hence” alludes to the mythical idea of the Phoenix being consumed by fire and reborn from its ashes, while the “mutual flame” symbolizes their shared love, which was so intense that it ultimately led to their departure. This imagery portrays their love as transformative—powerful and consuming, ultimately resulting in their union in death.

Poetic Device

Personification: Love and constancy are personified as entities that can “die.” This personification emphasizes the emotional weight of their loss, suggesting that the ideals of love and fidelity were living, breathing forces that have now been extinguished. It adds depth to the sense of mourning in the anthem.

Metaphor: The phrase “mutual flame” serves as a metaphor for the intense love shared between the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove. This metaphor suggests that their love was all-consuming, symbolizing passion and unity, but also foreshadowing their tragic end. The flame metaphorically represents both the beauty of their bond and the destructive nature of such intense emotions, reinforcing the theme of love’s duality.

Stanza 7

So they lov’d, as love in twain

Had the essence but in one;

Two distincts, division none:

Number there in love was slain.

Explanation: In this stanza, the speaker reflects on the unique and profound nature of the love shared between the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove. The lines “So they lov’d, as love in twain / Had the essence but in one” describe a love so deep that, although the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove were two separate beings, their love created a single, unified essence. They embodied the idea of “two distincts, division none,” meaning that although they were individuals, their love transcended individuality and united them so perfectly that there was no separation between them.

The concluding line, “Number there in love was slain,” suggests that in the context of their love, traditional notions of individuality and distinct separation ceased to exist. Their love was beyond simple enumeration—two beings were united so completely that they formed one inseparable entity, thus rendering numbers irrelevant. This speaks to the idea of true love being a merger of two souls into one.

Poetic Device

Paradox: The idea that they were “two distincts, division none” presents a paradox, suggesting that despite being separate individuals, their love made them inseparable. This paradoxical nature of their relationship illustrates the complexity of love, which can unite individuals while still allowing them to retain their identities.

Stanza 8

Hearts remote, yet not asunder;

Distance and no space was seen

‘Twixt this Turtle and his queen:

But in them it were a wonder.

Explanation: In this stanza, the speaker explores the theme of emotional connection despite physical distance. The phrase “Hearts remote, yet not asunder” suggests that while the Turtle Dove and the Phoenix may be separated by physical space, their hearts remain deeply connected. The word “remote” indicates that they are far apart, but “not asunder” emphasizes that their emotional bond is unbroken.

The line “Distance and no space was seen” further underscores this idea, suggesting that the emotional connection between them transcends any physical barriers. The phrase implies that their love is so powerful that it can defy the limitations of distance, making it feel as though they are always together in spirit.

The concluding line, “But in them it were a wonder,” emphasizes the miraculous nature of their connection. Despite the separation, the ability of the Turtle Dove and the Phoenix to maintain such a profound bond is portrayed as extraordinary. This highlights the theme of true love being a force that can withstand the trials of distance and separation, suggesting that their love is both deep and resilient.

Poetic Device

Oxymoron: The phrase “Hearts remote, yet not asunder” presents an oxymoron, juxtaposing the idea of emotional distance with the concept of unity. This device highlights the complexity of their relationship, illustrating how love can maintain closeness despite physical separation, underscoring the theme of transcendent love.

Stanza 9

So between them love did shine

That the Turtle saw his right

Flaming in the Phoenix’ sight:

Either was the other’s mine.

Explanation: In this stanza, the speaker highlights the brilliance and intensity of the love shared between the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove. The line “So between them love did shine” suggests that their love radiates brightly, illuminating their relationship and signifying its purity and strength.

The phrase “That the Turtle saw his right” indicates that the Turtle Dove recognizes its rightful place and bond with the Phoenix, affirming their connection. The use of “Flaming in the Phoenix’ sight” conveys the idea that their love is vibrant and all-consuming, akin to a fire that brings warmth and light. This imagery of flames emphasizes the passion and fervor of their love, suggesting it is not only visible but also a central aspect of their existence.

The concluding line, “Either was the other’s mine,” reinforces the notion of mutual belonging and unity in their relationship. This sentiment implies that they fully and completely belong to one another, embodying the idea of love as a force that transcends individual identity. In their love, both the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove find a sense of completeness and wholeness, highlighting the theme of true love as an all-encompassing bond that connects two souls as one.

Poetic Device

Imagery: The imagery in “love did shine” and “Flaming in the Phoenix’ sight” creates a vivid picture of their passionate love. The use of light and fire symbolizes warmth, intensity, and vitality, reinforcing the idea that their love is not just profound but also dynamic and radiant.

Metaphor: The phrase “love did shine” serves as a metaphor for the visibility and strength of their affection for one another. It conveys the idea that their love is not only present but also actively illuminates their lives, representing a guiding force that brings them together.

Stanza 10

Property was thus appalled

That the self was not the same;

Single nature’s double name

Neither two nor one was called.

Explanation: In this stanza, the speaker explores the complexities of identity in the context of the love shared between the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove. The line “Property was thus appalled” suggests that conventional notions of ownership and individuality are disrupted by the profound bond they share. The love between the two has transcended typical definitions of selfhood.

The phrase “That the self was not the same” indicates that their identities have transformed through their love. This merging of selves implies that they are no longer defined solely by their individual characteristics but have created a new essence together.

The line “Single nature’s double name” reinforces this idea, suggesting that although they are two distinct beings, their love has forged a singular identity or essence. This duality speaks to the idea that true love blurs the lines between individual identities, creating a unity that is both unique and profound.

The concluding line, “Neither two nor one was called,” emphasizes the complexity of their relationship. It suggests that their bond transcends simple categorization; they are not merely two individuals nor completely one entity. Instead, they exist in a state that defies conventional definitions, embodying a unity that encompasses both individuality and togetherness. This ambiguity captures the essence of their love as something extraordinary and ineffable.

Poetic Device

Paradox: The phrase “Neither two nor one was called” presents a paradox, illustrating the idea that the relationship between the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove cannot be easily defined. It captures the essence of their love, which is simultaneously individual and collective, challenging the reader’s understanding of identity in love.

Symbolism: The term “Single nature’s double name” symbolizes the duality of their identities. It suggests that while they maintain their individuality as distinct beings, their love creates a shared identity that blurs the lines between them. This symbolizes the transformative power of love, which can unite two separate entities into a harmonious whole.

Stanza 11

Reason, in itself confounded,

Saw division grow together,

To themselves yet either neither,

Simple were so well compounded;

Explanation: In this stanza, the speaker delves into the intricate relationship between love and reason, illustrating the complexity of the bond shared by the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove. The opening line, “Reason, in itself confounded,” suggests that rational thought struggles to comprehend the nature of their love. The concept of love, with its emotional depth and intricacies, often defies logical explanation, leaving reason bewildered.

The line “Saw division grow together” highlights the paradox of their relationship. While they are two distinct beings, their love unites them, creating a sense of harmony despite their individuality. This merging of identities reflects the idea that love can bridge divides and foster connection, transcending physical and emotional separations.

The phrase “To themselves yet either neither” further emphasizes this paradox. It indicates that although they may appear as two separate individuals, they are not entirely distinct; their love creates a state of being that challenges traditional notions of individuality. Their identities are intertwined, suggesting that in love, the boundaries of self can become fluid.

The concluding line, “Simple were so well compounded,” encapsulates the beauty of their relationship. It suggests that despite the complexity of their bond, there is an underlying simplicity to their love. This duality—being both intricate and straightforward—underscores the essence of their connection, celebrating how love can combine the multifaceted aspects of identity into a harmonious whole.

Poetic Device

Paradox: The idea that “To themselves yet either neither” is a paradox that reflects the intricate nature of their love. It illustrates how they exist as separate beings while simultaneously embodying a unified identity in their love, emphasizing the complexity of their emotional connection.

Personification: The line “Reason, in itself confounded” personifies reason, attributing it with the ability to experience confusion. This personification emphasizes the struggle of rational thought to make sense of the profound emotional connection between the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove, showcasing the tension between logic and love.

Stanza 12

That it cried, “How true a twain

Seemeth this concordant one!

Love has reason, reason none,

If what parts can so remain.”

Explanation: In this stanza, the speaker highlights the tension between love and rationality, illustrating the paradox of two distinct beings—the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove—being united in such a profound manner that they appear to function as a singular entity. The opening line, “That it cried, ‘How true a twain,’” suggests an acknowledgment of the duality inherent in their relationship. The phrase “true a twain” indicates that while they are two separate beings, their love reflects an authenticity that transcends individuality.

The following line, “Seemeth this concordant one!” emphasizes how their relationship creates an illusion of oneness. Despite being two distinct entities, their profound connection makes them appear as a harmonious, unified whole. This idea aligns with the notion that love can dissolve barriers and create a sense of unity that defies conventional understanding.

The line “Love has reason, reason none,” captures the paradoxical nature of love in relation to rational thought. It suggests that love possesses its own form of understanding that often eludes logical reasoning. While love can be driven by emotion and connection, rational thought struggles to grasp its complexities. This highlights the idea that love operates outside the confines of reason, illustrating the ineffable nature of deep emotional bonds.

The concluding line, “If what parts can so remain,” poses a rhetorical question that challenges the very concept of separation. It implies that if love can sustain such a deep connection between two individuals, it calls into question the significance of physical or emotional distances. This line reinforces the idea that true love can maintain unity even amidst divisions, celebrating the extraordinary bond shared by the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove.

Poetic Device

Paradox: The line “Love has reason, reason none” is a paradox that emphasizes the contradictory nature of love compared to reason. It suggests that while love may incorporate elements of understanding, it ultimately exists outside the realm of logical reasoning, reinforcing the complexity of emotional connections.

Rhetorical Question: The phrase “If what parts can so remain” functions as a rhetorical question that challenges the reader to contemplate the nature of love and separation. This device engages the audience, prompting them to reflect on the extraordinary qualities of love that allow for unity despite apparent divisions.

Stanza 13

Whereupon it made this threne

To the Phoenix and the Dove,

Co-supremes and stars of love,

As chorus to their tragic scene:

Explanation: In this stanza, the speaker describes the creation of a threnos—a mournful song or lament—in honor of the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove, celebrating their love and mourning their loss. The opening line, “Whereupon it made this threne,” indicates that the previous reflections on love and unity have culminated in a formal tribute to these symbolic figures of love. The use of “threnos” underscores the somber tone, suggesting that their love story has reached a tragic conclusion that warrants remembrance and mourning.

The phrase “Co-supremes and stars of love” positions the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove as exalted beings in the realm of love. “Co-supremes” implies that they share an equal status in their love story, while “stars of love” elevates them to celestial status, highlighting the extraordinary nature of their bond. The imagery of stars evokes themes of beauty, guidance, and eternity, suggesting that their love continues to shine brightly even in death.

The line “As chorus to their tragic scene” serves to unify the themes of love and loss within the context of a dramatic narrative. The use of “chorus” suggests a collective voice, reflecting the shared sorrow of those who mourn the loss of the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove. This line emphasizes the idea that their love, while powerful and transformative, is also marked by tragedy, and it invites the audience to engage in the ritual of remembrance.

Poetic Device

Metaphor: The description of the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove as “co-supremes and stars of love” serves as a metaphor, comparing their love to celestial phenomena. This metaphor emphasizes the grandeur and brilliance of their bond, suggesting that their love transcends earthly limitations and occupies a revered place in the cosmos.

Stanza 14

Beauty, truth, and rarity,

Grace in all simplicity,

Here enclos’d, in cinders lie.

Explanation: In this stanza, the speaker contemplates the loss of essential qualities—beauty, truth, and rarity—in the wake of the tragic demise of the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove. The opening line, “Beauty, truth, and rarity,” lists these profound ideals, highlighting their significance within the context of love. By placing them together, the speaker suggests that these qualities were intrinsic to the bond shared between the two creatures, making their love extraordinary and unique.

The phrase “Grace in all simplicity” implies that true beauty and truth often reside in simplicity. This suggests that love does not need to be complex or grandiose to be meaningful; rather, its purity and straightforwardness can embody the deepest connections. However, the subsequent line, “Here enclos’d, in cinders lie,” introduces a stark contrast to this ideal. The imagery of “cinders” suggests that what was once vibrant and alive has now been reduced to ashes, symbolizing loss, decay, and the end of their love. This evokes a sense of mourning as the speaker acknowledges that the qualities celebrated in their love are now encapsulated in a state of sorrow and desolation.

Poetic Device

Imagery: The phrase “in cinders lie” evokes strong visual imagery associated with destruction and loss. The use of “cinders,” the remnants of a fire, conveys a sense of decay and the aftermath of something once vibrant and alive. This imagery starkly contrasts with the preceding qualities of beauty, truth, and rarity, emphasizing the deep sense of mourning over what has been lost.

Juxtaposition: The contrast between “Beauty, truth, and rarity” and “in cinders lie” serves as a juxtaposition that highlights the shift from life to loss. By placing these ideals of love alongside the imagery of ashes, the speaker emphasizes the tragedy of their absence and the sorrow that accompanies the end of such a profound connection.

Stanza 15

Death is now the Phoenix’ nest,

And the Turtle’s loyal breast

To eternity doth rest,

Explanation: In this stanza, the speaker reflects on the finality of death and the enduring nature of love shared between the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove. The opening line, “Death is now the Phoenix’ nest,” suggests that death has become the final resting place for the Phoenix. This metaphor implies that while the physical form of the Phoenix is gone, the essence or spirit of the creature continues to exist. In mythology, the Phoenix is often associated with rebirth and regeneration, and this line can be interpreted as indicating that death is not merely an end, but also a transformation.

The second line, “And the Turtle’s loyal breast,” emphasizes the fidelity and devotion of the Turtle Dove, which symbolizes love and constancy. Here, the Turtle Dove remains steadfast in its loyalty, even in death, reinforcing the idea that true love transcends physical existence. This loyalty accentuates the depth of their connection and the profound sorrow that accompanies their loss.

The concluding line, “To eternity doth rest,” implies that their love endures beyond death, suggesting a sense of immortality in their bond. The term “eternity” evokes a timeless quality, indicating that although they have passed away, the essence of their love continues to exist in some form, eternal and unbreakable. Together, these lines encapsulate a powerful meditation on the themes of love, loyalty, and the idea that true connections can transcend even the finality of death.

Poetic Device

Metaphor: The phrase “Death is now the Phoenix’ nest” serves as a metaphor, equating death with a nest. This metaphor suggests that death is not just an ending but a place where the Phoenix finds rest and perhaps prepares for renewal. It highlights the dual nature of death as both an end and a potential beginning, consistent with the Phoenix’s mythological cycle of rebirth.

Personification: The line “the Turtle’s loyal breast” personifies the Turtle Dove by attributing human qualities of loyalty and steadfastness to it. This personification emphasizes the depth of emotional connection and fidelity in their love, portraying the Turtle Dove as a symbol of unwavering devotion, even in death.

Symbolism: The Phoenix symbolizes renewal, resurrection, and the cycle of life and death, while the Turtle Dove represents love and fidelity. Together, they symbolize the enduring nature of love that transcends even death, highlighting the idea that true love is eternal and unbreakable.

Stanza 16

Leaving no posterity:

‘Twas not their infirmity,

It was married chastity.

Explanation: In this stanza, the speaker reflects on the absence of offspring from the union of the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove, emphasizing that this lack of progeny should not be interpreted as a failure or weakness. The line “Leaving no posterity” points to the fact that their love did not produce children or a continuation of their lineage, which is often seen as a natural outcome of romantic relationships.

However, the subsequent line, “‘Twas not their infirmity,” asserts that this absence of descendants was not a deficiency in their love or an indication of inability. Instead, the speaker suggests that their bond was marked by purity and intentionality. The phrase “It was married chastity” implies that their love was characterized by fidelity and a deep emotional connection that transcended physical union and reproductive desires.

The notion of “married chastity” reinforces the idea that their relationship was rooted in a profound emotional and spiritual union, rather than in the conventional expectations of love that prioritize physical intimacy and progeny. This line conveys that true love can exist independently of societal norms regarding marriage and family, highlighting the significance of emotional bonds over biological legacies. Overall, this stanza elevates the nature of their love, suggesting that it is powerful and meaningful despite the absence of a tangible legacy.

Poetic Device

Antithesis: The juxtaposition between “Leaving no posterity” and “‘Twas not their infirmity” creates an antithesis that contrasts the expectation of lineage with the reality of their love. This device emphasizes the strength and intentionality of their relationship, highlighting that their lack of descendants was not a failure but a reflection of their unique bond.

Paradox: The phrase “It was married chastity” presents a paradox, as “married” typically implies a union that often leads to procreation. However, the addition of “chastity” suggests that their union was defined by purity rather than physical desires. This paradox reinforces the idea that their love was profound and transcended traditional expectations of love and marriage.

Stanza 17

Truth may seem but cannot be;

Beauty brag but ’tis not she;

Truth and beauty buried be.

Explanation: In this stanza, the speaker contemplates the nature of truth and beauty in the context of the loss of the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove. The line “Truth may seem but cannot be” suggests that while truth might appear to exist on the surface, it ultimately eludes full comprehension or realization. This notion emphasizes the complexity and often elusive quality of truth, indicating that what people perceive as true may not necessarily reflect a deeper reality.

The next line, “Beauty brag but ’tis not she,” implies that while beauty may boast of its significance, it fails to embody the essence of true beauty. This suggests that superficial or fleeting beauty can be deceptive, lacking the depth and substance that one would expect from something so valued. The line points to the idea that genuine beauty is not merely about outward appearances but rather encompasses deeper qualities associated with love, integrity, and emotional connection.

The concluding line, “Truth and beauty buried be,” serves as a powerful encapsulation of the overarching theme of loss. Here, the speaker expresses that both truth and beauty have been rendered lifeless or are now beyond reach, buried under the weight of sorrow and the finality of death. This line highlights the profound impact of the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove’s tragic fate on these essential qualities, emphasizing a sense of mourning for what has been lost. The idea of burial suggests a finality to their existence, reinforcing the idea that the ideals of truth and beauty are diminished in the wake of such profound loss.

Poetic Device

Paradox: The line “Truth may seem but cannot be” presents a paradox, highlighting the contrast between appearance and reality. It suggests that while truth may give the illusion of existence, it is ultimately unattainable or unreal, reflecting the complexities of understanding truth in the context of love and loss.

Personification: The phrase “Beauty brag but ’tis not she” personifies beauty as if it can boast or make claims about itself. This personification adds depth to the concept of beauty, suggesting that it has a presence and character beyond mere physical appearance, while also pointing to its inherent flaws and limitations.

Alliteration: The repetition of the “b” sound in “Beauty brag but ’tis not she” creates a musical quality that enhances the rhythm of the stanza. This alliteration also emphasizes the contrast between beauty’s claims and its ultimate lack of authenticity, reinforcing the theme of disillusionment.

Stanza 18

To this urn let those repair

That are either true or fair;

For these dead birds sigh a prayer.

Explanation: In this stanza, the speaker invites individuals who embody qualities of truth and beauty to visit the urn that symbolizes the memory of the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove. The phrase “To this urn let those repair” suggests a pilgrimage or a gathering at a site of remembrance, indicating the urn’s role as a memorial for the lost lovers. The urn represents the enduring nature of their love and the memories that persist even after their physical forms have vanished.

The line “That are either true or fair” emphasizes the qualities the speaker values. The words “true” and “fair” evoke ideas of authenticity and beauty, suggesting that those who possess these virtues are connected to the ideals represented by the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove. This line reflects a communal aspect of love and beauty, where those who appreciate and embody these qualities are invited to honor the legacy of the two lovers.

The concluding line, “For these dead birds sigh a prayer,” powerfully encapsulates the essence of mourning and reverence. The phrase “dead birds” refers to the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove, symbolizing the loss of their physical existence. The imagery of sighing a prayer suggests a deep emotional response to their absence, as if the spirits of the birds are calling for remembrance and acknowledgment of their love. This line reinforces the idea that their love is not forgotten, even in death, and invites others to participate in honoring their legacy.

Poetic Device

Metaphor: The “urn” serves as a metaphor for memory and commemoration, representing the place where the essence of the Phoenix and the Turtle Dove is preserved. This metaphor highlights the importance of remembering and honoring lost love, suggesting that while their physical forms are gone, their legacy continues to exist in the hearts and minds of those who value truth and beauty.

Personification: The phrase “these dead birds sigh a prayer” personifies the deceased Phoenix and Turtle Dove, attributing human-like qualities of sighing and praying to them. This device enhances the emotional weight of the stanza, suggesting that their spirits are still present and longing for remembrance, creating a poignant connection between the past and the living.