Sunday, December 13, 2009

Goblin Fruit


We must not look at goblin men,
We must not buy their fruits:
Who knows upon what soil they fed
their hungry thirsty roots?....

'Nay, hush, my sister:

I ate and ate my fill,
Yet my mouth waters still...



~ Christina Rossetti from Goblin Market: a Tale of Two Sisters


I adore this ballad by Victorian poet Christina Rossetti.  Much has been written about the meaning behind Goblin Market.  The author herself said that it was meant as a simple fairy story, though not for kids.  I think it has many layers, like dreams.   The words and images are as rich and sensuous as almost anything I've ever read.  If you don't have your own paper copy, I suggest printing it out and reading it when you are lounging and eating delicious fruit.  Maybe in the bath.

Post inspired by Day 12 of Gwen Bell’s December blogging challenge: What was your favorite new food 09? (still haven't tried goblin fruit, but know I'd love it.)

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

What an absolutely lovely poem. I'm not well versed in poetry so I'm looking forward to your insights and recommendations. :)

Kate T.W. said...

Thanks! My great pleasure :-)

Lindsey said...

Love Christina Rossetti!
Thanks for this - Goblin Market is one of the greats (in my humble opinion).
xo

South Bend Home Appraisal said...

Greeat read thanks