Poetry

Poetry itself is a symbol in this poem, representing attention and self-expression. Jonson uses the details of poetic composition, such as rhythm and rhyme, to depict his interior life--the things he notices, and the things he wishes to share with the world.

The Muse

The muse represents artistic inspiration. The nine muses are ancient Greek goddesses who each represent one of the classical arts. They are frequently used in poetry as a symbol of a writer's inspiration.

Cupid's bow

Cupid's bow symbolizes falling in love. In Roman myth, Cupid was a god who took the form of a young boy with a bow and arrow. One shot from his bow could make anyone fall in love immediately. In the poem, Jonson compares Wroth's writing to Cupid's bow, depicting it as having the same power to generate romantic feeling.

Ceston

The "ceston" represents conclusion and finality. A...