Robert Herrick (1591-1674)

To the Virgins, to Make Much of Time

Carpe Diem Metaphor

Rosebuds symbolize youth and beauty—gathering them means seizing opportunities before they wither.

Gather ye rosebuds while ye may,
Old time is still a-flying:
And this same flower that smiles to-day
To-morrow will be dying.
The glorious lamp of heaven, the sun,

Solar Time Metaphor

Sun's daily arc becomes a metaphor for human lifespan: rising means youth, setting means death.

The higher he's a-getting,
The sooner will his race be run,
And nearer he's to setting.
That age is best which is the first,
When youth and blood are warmer;
But being spent, the worse, and worst
Times still succeed the former.

Urgency of Marriage

Direct command to young women: marriage is time-sensitive, youth is fleeting.

Then be not coy, but use your time,
And while ye may go marry:
For having lost but once your prime
You may for ever tarry.
Source Wikipedia Poetry Foundation

Reading Notes

Carpe Diem: A Poetic Tradition

Carpe diem poetry emerged in the Renaissance as a response to life's brevity. Herrick follows classical poets like Horace in urging young people to embrace pleasure before time runs out.

The poem uses natural metaphors (rosebuds, sun's movement) to illustrate human mortality. Each image reinforces the central message: youth is temporary, so live fully and quickly.

Social Pressures on Young Women

CONTEXT In 17th-century England, women's marriageable age was narrow and socially critical. Herrick's poem isn't just philosophical—it's pragmatic advice about securing a husband.

The poem's urgent tone reflects real social constraints. For women, 'losing prime' meant potentially remaining unmarried, which carried significant economic and social consequences.