Meaning:
The quote "Bid me to love, and I will give a loving heart to thee" is from a poem by the English poet Robert Herrick. Herrick was a 17th-century poet known for his lyric poetry, and this particular quote reflects the theme of love and devotion that is often present in his works. The quote suggests a willingness to love and give one's heart to another when asked, indicating a sense of unconditional love and commitment.
Robert Herrick was born in London in 1591 and is best known for his collection of poems titled "Hesperides." His poetry often explores themes of love, nature, and the passage of time. Herrick's writing style is characterized by its simplicity, directness, and use of vivid imagery. His poems often celebrate the pleasures of life, love, and the natural world, and his work has been influential in English literature.
In the context of the quote, "Bid me to love, and I will give a loving heart to thee," Herrick is expressing a willingness to be open and vulnerable in love. The phrase "Bid me to love" implies a request or command to love, and the response "I will give a loving heart to thee" suggests a readiness to reciprocate that love. The quote conveys a sense of willingness to be emotionally available and to offer love in return for love.
The quote can be interpreted as a declaration of devotion and a willingness to be responsive to the call of love. It captures the essence of romantic commitment and the idea of being open to love when it is sought. The simplicity and sincerity of the quote make it a powerful expression of the emotions associated with love and the readiness to give one's heart to another.
In the broader context of Herrick's work, the quote aligns with the themes of love and human relationships that are prevalent in his poetry. His poems often explore the complexities of love, including its joys, sorrows, and uncertainties. The quote reflects Herrick's ability to capture the emotional nuances of love and to convey them in a straightforward and heartfelt manner.
Overall, the quote "Bid me to love, and I will give a loving heart to thee" encapsulates the theme of love and emotional openness that is central to Robert Herrick's poetry. It reflects a willingness to be responsive to love and to offer one's heart in return. Through its simplicity and sincerity, the quote resonates with the universal experience of love and the desire for connection and emotional intimacy.