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What Is The Mood Of The Poem 'ABAB' By Robert Herrick?

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This poem dramatizes the conflict between the brevity of youth and the fleetingness of time. Robert Herrick’s poem comes to life through an unknown male speaker, presumably older, who laments his lost youth. Speaking from his experience, he proceeds to admonish virgins in the midst of their youth that time will not wait for them, and that they must act immediately to enjoy their few pleasant years.
The poem consists of four quatrains, each with an “ABAB” rhyme scheme. Both provide a whimsical and playful atmosphere, which contribute to the poem having an optimistic tone as opposed to a depressing, nostalgic one. Additionally, these provide a stark contrast between the wizened speaker and his jejune audience.
Herrick’s poem commences swiftly
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