- Poetry that expresses emotions in an idyllic setting. It is related to the term "pasture," and is associated with shepherds writing music to their flocks. The tradition goes back to David in the Bible and Hesiod the Greek poet.
'The Passionate Shepherd to His Love' is an example of pastoral poetry written by Christopher Marlowe. Pastoral poetry plays off the very common romanticizing of rustic or country living with a 'back to nature' sentiment. While we may think of only our modern world as having this very urban sentiment, the truth is that people have been fantasizing about getting back to nature for centuries.
This sixteenth century poem centers around a shepherd painting an idyllic picture of what country life will be like to the woman he loves. The very first line begins 'Come live with me, and be my love.' Marlowe paint a picture of idyllic nature without any of the real dangers that might be present. There are no responsibilities in this imaginary life, as the shepherd imagines the couple will watch other "shepherds feed their flocks," while making no mention of his own flock for which he is responsible. There is also no mention of any wolves or predators that might prey upon the flock. The shepherd then invites his mistress to experience all the pleasures the couple might enjoy in the countryside in May. That they will lie in "beds of roses" suggests the couple will make love outside and without shelter. Additionally, the "beds of roses" would probably include a significant number of thorns, which are guaranteed to reduce the shepherd's passion. |