About Sir John Suckling
Who was Sir John Suckling?
An English poet during the 17th century
Who is the speaker addressing in the poem?
A lovesick lover.
What major theme appears in the poem?
Unrequited love.
What is the tone of the poem?
Mocking and sarcastic.
How does the speaker believe love should be approached
With confidence and self respect.
Besides poetry, what other role did John have?
He was a courtier and soldier.
What is the speaker’s main message to the lover?
Stop wasting time on someone who doesn’t love you back.
What does the poem suggest about chasing love too hard?
It’s pointless and humiliating.
What literary devices are used in the poem?
Rhetorical questions, Irony, and Repetition
Why does the speaker call the lover “fond”?
To demonstrate the lover is foolishly obsessed.
What English king did John serve under?
King Charles I
What emotion does the poem mostly express?
Frustration, and or sarcasm.
How does the speaker view romantic suffering?
As unnecessary and foolish.
How does repetition help the poem?
It emphasizes the lover’s desperation.
What is john's solution to the lover’s problem?
Move on and don't obsess.
What group of poets is John associated with?
The Cavalier poets.
What type of poem is “Song”?
A lyrical love poem.
Overall, what attitude toward love does the poem show?
Realistic and sometimes confusing.
What device is used when the speaker exaggerates suffering?
Hyperbole.
What lesson does this poem teach?
Love shouldn't come at the cost of your self worth.
During which historical period did John write?
The Cavalier era.
What is the full title of the poem?
“Why so pale and wan, fond lover?”
What advice does the poem give about self respect?
Don’t lose your dignity over someone who doesn’t care.
Why does John use humor in the poem?
To criticize unhealthy romantic behavior.
How does the poem challenge traditional love poetry?
It mocks romantic suffering instead of glorifying it (like everyone else..).