Song from 'The Miller's Daughter, Lord Tennyson: Summary, Analysis & Themes

Lord Tennyson's "Song from 'The Miller's Daughter'" is a lyrical expression of deep affection and intimate desire. The poem explores themes of love and longing through the speaker’s wish to be close to the beloved, symbolically imagining themselves as various cherished items. Tennyson's use of vivid imagery and personal connection highlights the emotional intensity of romantic longing.

"Song from 'The Miller's Daughter'" Poem Text by Lord Tennyson

It is the miller's daughter,
And she is grown so dear, so dear,
That I would be the jewel
That trembles in her ear:
For hid in ringlets day and night,
I'd touch her neck so warm and white.
And I would be the girdle
About her dainty dainty waist,
And her heart would beat against me,
In sorrow and in rest:
And I should know if it beat right,
I'd clasp it round so close and tight.
And I would be the necklace,
And all day long to fall and rise
Upon her balmy bosom,
With her laughter or her sighs,
And I would lie so light, so light,
I scarce should be unclasp'd at night.

Quick Facts

Summary of "Song from 'The Miller's Daughter'" by Lord Tennyson

In "Song from 'The Miller's Daughter'," Lord Tennyson presents a heartfelt exploration of romantic longing and desire. The poem's speaker expresses a profound wish to be close to the beloved, imagining themselves as various precious items that adorn and touch her. Through vivid imagery, the speaker conveys a deep yearning to be part of the beloved's daily life and intimate moments.

The poem uses symbols such as a jewel, girdle, and necklace to represent different forms of closeness and intimacy. These symbols reflect the speaker’s desire to be near the beloved at all times, sharing in both her joys and sorrows. The imagery of touching the beloved’s neck and lying lightly on her bosom emphasizes the speaker's yearning for a constant and tender connection.

Tennyson's lyrical approach highlights the emotional depth of the speaker’s affection. The repeated imagery of being close to the beloved, whether through a jewel or a necklace, underscores the intensity of the speaker’s feelings and their wish for a seamless bond with the one they love.

Critical Analysis of "Song from 'The Miller's Daughter'" by Lord Tennyson

Lord Tennyson’s "Song from 'The Miller's Daughter'" is a tender reflection on romantic desire and intimacy. The poem’s use of symbols and imagery serves to convey the speaker’s deep yearning to be close to the beloved. The choice of symbols—such as a jewel and necklace—emphasizes the desire for both physical proximity and emotional connection.

The poem’s lyrical quality and rhythmic structure enhance its emotional impact. The speaker’s detailed imaginings of being a cherished item highlight their longing to share every moment with the beloved, creating a vivid picture of affection. The imagery of touching and falling lightly on the beloved’s body adds a sensual layer to the poem, deepening its emotional resonance.

Tennyson’s ability to express complex emotions through simple yet powerful symbols reflects the poem's enduring appeal. The focus on intimacy and the physical representation of love through everyday objects creates a relatable and poignant exploration of romantic desire.

Themes in "Song from 'The Miller's Daughter'" by Lord Tennyson

• Love: The poem centers on the speaker's deep and passionate affection for the beloved, expressing a desire to be intimately connected.
• Longing: The speaker’s vivid imaginings of being close to the beloved highlight a profound sense of yearning and desire.
• Intimacy: Through the symbols of jewelry and clothing, the poem explores the desire for emotional and physical closeness.

Literary Devices in "Song from 'The Miller's Daughter'" by Lord Tennyson

• Imagery: Tennyson uses vivid imagery of jewelry and personal adornments to symbolize closeness and affection.
• Symbolism: The speaker imagines being various items such as a jewel, girdle, and necklace to represent different forms of intimacy and connection.
• Repetition: The repeated use of symbols reinforces the speaker’s longing and desire for constant closeness to the beloved.

Stylistic Analysis of "Song from 'The Miller's Daughter'" by Lord Tennyson

Lord Tennyson’s style in "Song from 'The Miller's Daughter'" is characterized by its lyrical and intimate tone. The poem’s use of symbolic imagery and rhythmic flow creates a sense of emotional depth and tenderness. The simple yet evocative language captures the speaker’s profound affection and longing, making the poem a powerful expression of romantic desire.

The poem’s structure, with its rhythmic cadence and clear imagery, enhances its lyrical quality. Tennyson’s ability to convey complex emotions through everyday objects reflects his skill in creating relatable and poignant poetry. The focus on symbols of intimacy and connection highlights the speaker’s deep yearning to be close to the beloved at all times.

Overall, Tennyson’s stylistic choices in "Song from 'The Miller's Daughter'" contribute to the poem’s emotional impact and enduring appeal. The combination of vivid imagery, symbolic representation, and lyrical rhythm creates a compelling portrayal of romantic longing and intimacy.