When I Was Fair and Young by Queen Elizabeth I: Summary, Analysis & Themes
"When I Was Fair and Young" by Queen Elizabeth I is a reflective poem that captures the themes of pride, regret, and the transient nature of youth and beauty. Written by one of the most powerful monarchs in history, this poem provides a rare glimpse into her personal sentiments and emotional introspection. Queen Elizabeth I writes of her youthful arrogance and how she scorned the affections of many admirers, only to later experience regret after being humbled by Cupid, the god of love. The poem's timeless themes and historical significance make it a poignant exploration of vanity and remorse.
When I Was Fair and Young
When I was fair and young, then favor graced me.
Of many was I sought their mistress for to be.
But I did scorn them all and answered them therefore:
Go, go, go, seek some other where; importune me no more.
How many weeping eyes I made to pine in woe,
How many sighing hearts I have not skill to show,
But I the prouder grew and still this spake therefore:
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