poetry,
also called bucolic (relating to pleasant parts of country life) or idyllic (happy and peaceful
in an idealized way), is characterized by references to nature, usually involving shepherds and
the countryside. This type of poetry is very idealistic and presents a very innocent and
simplistic view of nature and life in the country.
Marlowes The Passionate
Shepherd to His Love clearly reflects the traits of pastoral poetry. Marlowesattempts to
convince his love to be with him in the country. Come live with me and be my love/And we will
all the pleasures prove. The speaker gives various reasons why being with him would benefit his
love. He says that they will sit and watch the shepherds tend their flocks, and sit near the
rivers, and watch the birds. He promises to make thee beds of Roses, a gown of the finest
wool, and slippers with gold buckles. He also says that the Shepherds' Swains shall dance and
sing every day, just for his love.
However, the speakers arguments are quite
unrealistic and unrelated to true reasons why people should be together. The argument is a
simplistic one, reasoning that to be happy, people just need to sit idly enjoying nature. He
does not describe a real relationship, but a fantasy one, and his argument hinges on the idea
that country life is all it takes to be happy. There is no mention of daily responsibilities and
problems that are part of any humans existence. Thus, Marlowes speaker simplifies life and
innocently equates happiness with the peaceful countryside.
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