Meaning: The quote "So sweet love seemed that April morn. When first we kissed beside the thorn, So strangely sweet, it was not strange We thought that love could never change" is from the poem "Love and Change" by Robert Bridges. This quote captures the fleeting and euphoric nature of love, particularly its initial stages. Robert Bridges, a British poet, was known for his lyrical and reflective poetry, often exploring themes of love, nature, and the passage of time.

In this particular quote, Bridges uses the imagery of a sweet April morning and the act of kissing beside a thorn to convey the intense and intoxicating experience of love. The juxtaposition of sweetness and strangeness in the line "So strangely sweet, it was not strange" suggests that love, while delightful and enchanting, also possesses an element of unpredictability and mystery. The following line, "We thought that love could never change," reflects the common sentiment of lovers who believe that their intense feelings will remain constant and unchanging.

The poem "Love and Change" as a whole delves into the inevitable transformation and evolution of love over time. Bridges grapples with the bittersweet realization that love, like the seasons, is subject to change and impermanence. The initial sweetness and intensity of love, as depicted in the quoted lines, eventually give way to the recognition that love is a dynamic force that ebbs and flows, much like the natural world.

In terms of literary analysis, the quote exemplifies Bridges' skillful use of imagery and emotional resonance. The vivid portrayal of the April morning and the tender act of kissing besidethe thorn creates a sensory and evocative experience for the reader. The contrast between the initial sweetness and the acknowledgment of potential change invites contemplation on the complexities of love and human emotions.

Furthermore, the quote encapsulates a universal aspect of the human experience—the idealization of love in its early stages and the subsequent realization of its mutability. The sentiment expressed resonates with readers who have experienced the exhilaration and optimism of newfound love, only to confront the inevitable shifts and challenges that come with the passage of time.

In conclusion, Robert Bridges' quote from "Love and Change" captures the enchanting and transitory nature of love, as well as the human tendency to idealize its permanence. Through skillful imagery and emotional depth, the quote encapsulates the essence of love's initial sweetness and the recognition of its potential for change. The poem as a whole serves as a poignant exploration of the complexities of love and the human experience, making it a timeless and relatable piece of literature.