Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"A Birthday" is a poem by Christina Rossetti, first published in her 1861 collection "Goblin Market and Other Poems." The poem celebrates the joy and excitement of love, and uses vivid imagery and language to convey the speaker's sense of happiness and contentment.

The poem is structured as a series of quatrains, with a rhyme scheme of ABAB. In the first stanza, the speaker declares that her heart is filled with joy and that she is eager to celebrate her birthday with her beloved.

In the second stanza, the speaker describes her surroundings in colorful and vivid terms, using imagery of flowers, birds, and sunlight to convey a sense of vibrant energy and life.

In the third stanza, the speaker reflects on her feelings of love, describing her lover's presence as a source of comfort and happiness. She declares that her love for her beloved is strong and enduring, and that it brings her great joy.

In the final stanza, the speaker expresses her gratitude for the gift of love, and declares that it is more valuable to her than any material possession. She concludes by reiterating her joy and excitement, and declaring that her love will continue to grow and flourish in the future.

Overall, "A Birthday" is a beautiful and joyful celebration of love and happiness. Through her use of vivid imagery and language, Rossetti creates a sense of exuberance and energy that reflects the speaker's excitement and passion. The poem is a testament to the power of love to bring joy and meaning to our lives, and to the importance of cherishing and celebrating the people we love.