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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


THE BRIDESMAID by ALFRED TENNYSON

Poet Analysis

First Line: O BRIDESMAID, ERE THE HAPPY KNOT WAS TIED
Last Line: O HAPPY BRIDESMAID, MAKE A HAPPY BRIDE!'
Subject(s): MARRIAGE; WEDDINGS; HUSBANDS; WIVES;

O BRIDESMAID, ere the happy knot was tied,
Thine eyes so wept that they could hardly see;
Thy sister smiled and said, 'No tears for me!
A happy bridesmaid makes a happy bride.'
And then, the couple standing side by side,
Love lighted down between them full of glee,
And over his left shoulder laugh'd at thee,
'O happy bridesmaid, make a happy bride.'
And all at once a pleasant truth I learn'd,
For while the tender service made thee weep,
I loved thee for the tear thou couldst not hide,
And prest thy hand, and knew the press return'd,
And thought, 'My life is sick of single sleep:
O happy bridesmaid, make a happy bride!'





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