I need some help understanding the last two stanzas of this poem.


Since when it grows, and smells, I swear,
Not of itself, but thee.

What significance does it have to the rest of the poem?

I think that these lines are saying that even though she sent back the wreath, it's ok because now it smells like her. can't be positive but that's what I got from it.
by the way, you wouldn't happen to be in one of Prof. Marquez's Lit classes would you?

As a matter of fact I am in Mr. Marquez's class. My name is Shawn Pennel. Who might this be?

Shawn,

Those are lines, not stanzas. I'd say Emilee is right- he sent her flowers, probably a bouquet of roses. They no longer have their own scent, but Celia's instead. (I'd take this as a metaphor, not directly- people didn't bathe much then!)

pam

To Celia
Ben Jonson

Drink to me only with thine eyes,
And I will pledge with mine;
Or leave a kiss but in the cup
And I'll not look for wine.
The thirst that from the soul doth rise
Doth ask a drink divine;
But might I of Jove's nectar sup,
I would not change for thine.

I sent thee late a rosy wreath,
Not so much honoring thee
As giving it a hope that there
It could not wither'd be;
But thou thereon didst only
breathe
And sent'st it back to me;
Since when it grows,
and smells, I swear,
Not of itself, but thee!

Hello friends.

My friend and I were assigned to do a complete analysis on Song:To Celia... and we have no idea whatsoever the true meaning behind these stanzas. Is there anyway one of you can help us with our problem?

Please, and thank you.

Click on Flat View- and look at the post dated 7/12/04.

The 'true meaning' is pretty much what's in front of you. It's a love poem.

pam

tit!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!