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Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained | |||
In "Mary at the Fair or, Advice from a Gypsy" by Elinor Wylie, the speaker, who assumes the voice of a gypsy offering advice, presents a sharp, pragmatic, and somewhat cynical view of life's mistakes and the consequences of poor choices. The poem blends realism with a touch of mystical fortune-telling, using vivid, often harsh imagery to explore themes of love, regret, and the passage of time. Wylie contrasts the fleeting nature of youthful beauty and desires with the practical wisdom that comes from experience and self-awareness. The poem opens with the speaker stating that the ring, which may have once symbolized an ideal or commitment, is “no more than parcel-gilt; / Folly to pretend it!” This immediate devaluation of the ring suggests that superficial things—whether material possessions or promises—are often empty or lacking in true value. The following line, “The cup is cracked, the milk is spilt,” uses imagery of brokenness and irreparability, reinforcing the idea that some mistakes cannot be undone, and no amount of regret or lamentation can restore what has been lost. The gypsy continues with advice that reflects a no-nonsense approach to life’s disappointments: “Crying will not mend it.” Here, the speaker emphasizes the futility of mourning over past mistakes, offering a harsh but realistic view that we must accept what cannot be changed. The following lines, “Here’s a pill you cannot sweeten; / Here’s a frosted cake you’ve eaten; / A penny, and you’ve spent it,” use metaphorical language to suggest that some things, once experienced or lost, cannot be redeemed, much like a bitter pill or an eaten cake. These metaphors underscore the irreversible nature of some choices, illustrating the consequences of actions that cannot be undone. The speaker shifts from the painful reality of these unchangeable situations to offer advice on dealing with personal afflictions, particularly in the realm of relationships. “Though they tie you to a cart / And whip you through the city, / He who never gave his heart / Will never give his pity” suggests that those who do not genuinely care for us cannot be expected to show empathy or kindness. The speaker encourages Mary to “dry your tears; admit your error; / Kiss your mouth within the mirror; / Thank your stars you’re pretty.” The act of kissing her reflection in the mirror symbolizes self-recognition and perhaps a reminder to appreciate one’s own worth, independent of others' actions. There’s an almost pragmatic acceptance of her situation, advising Mary to acknowledge her mistakes, move forward, and take comfort in her own beauty. The second part of the poem shifts tone, offering Mary a glimpse of hope and change. “Mary, you have made your bed / Out of briars and withies; / No one lies where you are laid / For a score of prithees; / Pillow stuffed with stinging nettles / Harsh as adamantine metals / From the devil’s smithies!” These lines convey the suffering and hardship that Mary has experienced as a result of her choices, with the “bed of briars and withies” symbolizing discomfort, pain, and perhaps the consequences of ill-advised relationships. The “pillow stuffed with stinging nettles” further emphasizes the harshness of her emotional state and the bitter reality of her situation. The harsh imagery suggests that her actions have led her to a place of physical and emotional discomfort. However, the gypsy offers a prophetic note of hope: “Mary, wait another year; / Turn your mattress over; / You shall see it change, my dear, / To a field of clover.” The metaphor of turning the mattress over represents a change in perspective or circumstances. The field of clover symbolizes a more peaceful, fruitful, and pleasant situation, indicating that time will bring a shift in Mary’s life. The gypsy’s promise of “a lover” at the “first hour of April” suggests that new opportunities for love and happiness will arise in due time, offering Mary a chance for a fresh start. Finally, the speaker concludes with a pragmatic and somewhat cynical prediction that Mary’s fortunes will change, but only after a period of waiting and patience. The gypsy’s words reflect the dual nature of the poem: while there is an acknowledgment of the pain and consequences of past mistakes, there is also the promise that change is possible, and that through time and self-reflection, new opportunities will emerge. The tone remains practical, advising Mary to endure and bide her time, with the suggestion that even life's hardships, represented by the nettles and briars, can eventually be replaced by something sweeter, like the field of clover. In "Mary at the Fair or, Advice from a Gypsy," Wylie presents a nuanced exploration of life's challenges, particularly the consequences of rash decisions in love and relationships. The gypsy's advice, delivered with a mixture of realism and hope, underscores the importance of accepting one's past mistakes while also allowing for personal growth and future change. The poem balances harsh truths with the potential for redemption, encouraging patience and self-awareness in the face of adversity. Through vivid imagery and metaphor, Wylie paints a picture of both suffering and hope, illustrating the cyclical nature of hardship and renewal.
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