Cherry-Ripe
By Thomas Campion
There is a garden in her face
Where roses and white lilies blow;
A heavenly paradise is that place,
Wherein all pleasant fruits do flow
There cherries grow which none may buy
Till “Cherry-ripe” themselves do cry.Those cherries fairly do enclose
Of orient pearl a double row,
Which when her lovely laughter shows,
They look like rose-buds filled with snow;
Yet them no peer nor prince can buy
Till “Cherry-ripe” themselves do cry.Her eyes like angels watch them still;
Her brows like bended bows do stand,
Threat’ning with piercing frowns to kill
All that attempt with eye or hand
Those sacred cherries to come nigh,
Till “Cherry-ripe” themselves do cry.
Summary of Cherry-Ripe
“Cherry-Ripe,” penned by the accomplished English poet and physician Thomas Campion, is a captivating descriptive poem first published in 1617. The poem celebrates feminine beauty, drawing a vivid comparison between a woman and a lush, bountiful garden. It elevates the lady’s allure not merely as physical attractiveness but also underscores her inherent dignity and self possession. The poem playfully suggests that her beauty isn’t freely given, but rather revealed on her own terms, symbolized by the phrase “Cherry‑ripe.” This is not simply a poem about physical description but about a woman who possesses both beauty and character and who dictates the terms of admiration.
Central Idea
At its heart, “Cherry-Ripe” explores the idea of unattainable beauty and the power dynamics surrounding it. The woman is presented as a self-contained paradise, her beauty precious and guarded. The recurring refrain, “Till ‘Cherry-ripe’ themselves do cry,” emphasizes her agency, she chooses when and to whom she reveals her allure. The poem is a delicate dance between desire and deference, suggesting that true beauty lies not just in appearance but in the woman’s self respect and control.
Analysis of “Cherry-Ripe”
The Garden Metaphor and Initial Imagery
The poem immediately establishes a central metaphor: the woman’s face is a “garden.” This isn’t a simple comparison; it is a layered image that suggests cultivation, growth, and abundance. The “roses and white lilies” are not merely descriptive details; they symbolize purity, beauty, and perfection. Notice how the opening lines evoke a sense of paradise: “A heavenly paradise is that place, / Wherein all pleasant fruits do flow.” This establishes a heightened, idealized vision of the woman, elevating her above the mundane. The phrase “pleasant fruits” sets the stage for the central symbol of the poem – the cherries.
The Symbolism of “Cherry-Ripe”
The “cherries” are the focal point of the poem. They represent the woman’s lips, but more importantly they symbolize her desirability and her control over it. The repetition of “Till ‘Cherry-ripe’ themselves do cry” is crucial. It is not enough to admire from afar or to attempt to possess. The cherries – and by extension, the woman – must offer themselves. This suggests that her beauty is not freely available but rather a privilege granted to the worthy. The word “ripe” itself implies a natural readiness, a fullness of being that cannot be forced.
Imagery of Teeth and Laughter
The second stanza shifts focus to the woman’s teeth, described as “of orient pearl a double row.” This imagery evokes luxury, preciousness, and brilliance. The simile, “They look like rose-buds filled with snow,” is particularly striking. It connects the teeth back to the garden metaphor, suggesting a harmonious blend of color and texture. The important connection here is that this beauty is revealed when her lovely laughter shows. It is not a static image but something dynamic and joyful, further emphasizing the woman’s vitality.
Protective Imagery and the Power of the Gaze
The final stanza introduces a sense of protection and warning. Her “eyes like angels” watch them still, suggesting a watchful, almost divine presence. The simile “her brows like bended bows” introduces a martial image, hinting at a readiness to defend her beauty. The threat of “piercing frowns to kill” is hyperbolic but effectively conveys a sense of power and control. This is not merely a beautiful woman; she is a force to be reckoned with. The final repetition of “Till ‘Cherry-ripe’ themselves do cry” reinforces the central idea – her beauty is only accessible on her own terms.
Literary and Poetic Devices
Simile and Metaphor
The poem is rich in both simile and metaphor. The entire concept of the “garden” is a sustained metaphor, while phrases like “her eyes like angels” and “her brows like bended bows” are clear examples of simile. These devices create vivid imagery and help convey the woman’s beauty and power. The consistent use of these devices is central to the poem’s evocative quality.
Imagery
As demonstrated above, imagery is a cornerstone of “Cherry-Ripe.” The poem appeals to multiple senses – sight, smell, and taste – creating a rich and immersive experience for the reader. The consistent use of natural imagery – gardens, flowers, pearls – reinforces the idea of a beautiful, harmonious world.
Repetition and Refrain
The repetition of “Till ‘Cherry-ripe’ themselves do cry” is more than a stylistic choice. It functions as a refrain, emphasizing the central theme of the poem and creating a sense of anticipation. It is a musical device that also reinforces the woman’s agency and control.
Alliteration and Consonance
While subtle, Campion also employs alliteration and consonance to enhance the poem’s musicality. For example, the repetition of the “w” sound in “which when” and the “s” sound in “sacred cherries” create a pleasing auditory effect.
Rhyme Scheme and Structure
The poem follows an ABABCB rhyme scheme within each six‑line stanza. This regular structure provides a sense of order and balance, while the consistent rhyme scheme adds to the poem’s musicality.
Quotes for Reflection
The following lines capture the essence of “Cherry-Ripe” and can be used to appreciate the poem’s beauty and meaning:
There is a garden in her face
Where roses and white lilies blow;
A heavenly paradise is that place,
Wherein all pleasant fruits do flow.
These lines beautifully illustrate the poem’s central metaphor and establish a sense of idealized beauty. “Cherry-Ripe” is more than a descriptive poem; it is a celebration of feminine beauty, agency, and self respect. Through its vivid imagery, musical language, and carefully crafted structure, the poem offers a timeless meditation on the power of attraction and the importance of self possession.